CrystalvsSouthern Tropic
Crystal (aroma) and Southern Tropic (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Crystal
Alpha acid
2.8–6%
Beta acid
4.5–8.5%
Total oil
0.8–2.3 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 Crystal
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
When to pick Southern Tropic
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Crystal
WoodyFloralGreenFruitySpicyCinnamonNutmegBlack currant
Only in Southern Tropic
MelonTroicalGuavaButterscotchLemongrassCoconutPungentPineappleBubblegumCitrus
Property
| Property | Crystal | Southern Tropic |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 2.8–6% | 12.6–18.1% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–8.5% | 5–6.5% |
| Co-humulone | 20–26% | 26–30% |
| Total oil | 0.8–2.3 mL | - |
| Myrcene | 30–55% | 19–46% |
| Humulene | 20–30% | 14–40% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–12% | 6–14% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 8–11% |
| Origin | United States | South Africa |
| Purpose | Aroma | Bittering |
Hersbrucker
Strisselspalt