CTZvsSouthern Brewer

CTZ (dual purpose) and Southern Brewer (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

CTZ

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

14.5–17%

Beta acid

4.5–5.5%

Total oil

2.5–4.5 mL

United States

Southern Brewer

Bittering

Alpha acid

8–12%

Beta acid

2.5–5%

Total oil

0.4–1.5 mL

South Africa

Key differences

When to pick CTZ

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Southern Brewer

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in CTZ

Black currantLicoriceCurryCitrusCannabisDank

Only in Southern Brewer

EarthyWoody

Property

PropertyCTZSouthern Brewer
Alpha acid14.5–17%8–12%
Beta acid4.5–5.5%2.5–5%
Co-humulone28–35%38–41%
Total oil2.5–4.5 mL0.4–1.5 mL
Myrcene45–55%-
Humulene9–14%-
Caryophyllene6–10%-
Farnesene0–1%-
OriginUnited StatesSouth Africa
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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