ColumbusvsSouthern Tropic
Columbus (dual purpose) and Southern Tropic (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Columbus
Alpha acid
14–18%
Beta acid
4.5–6%
Total oil
2.5–4.5 mL
United States
Southern Tropic
Alpha acid
12.6–18.1%
Beta acid
5–6.5%
Total oil
-
South Africa
Key differences
When to pick Columbus
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
When to pick Southern Tropic
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
CitrusPungent
Only in Columbus
EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurrySpicyFloralDankCannabis
Only in Southern Tropic
MelonTroicalGuavaButterscotchLemongrassCoconutPineappleBubblegum
Property
| Property | Columbus | Southern Tropic |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 14–18% | 12.6–18.1% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–6% | 5–6.5% |
| Co-humulone | 28–35% | 26–30% |
| Total oil | 2.5–4.5 mL | - |
| Myrcene | 45–55% | 19–46% |
| Humulene | 9–14% | 14–40% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–10% | 6–14% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 8–11% |
| Origin | United States | South Africa |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |