EnigmavsSouthern Tropic

Enigma (aroma) and Southern Tropic (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Enigma

Aroma

Alpha acid

13.5–19.4%

Beta acid

4.5–7.1%

Total oil

1.8–3 mL

Australia

Southern Tropic

Bittering

Alpha acid

12.6–18.1%

Beta acid

5–6.5%

Total oil

-

South Africa

Key differences

When to pick Enigma

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Southern Tropic

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • 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 Enigma

TropicalBerryStone fruitRaspberryRedcurrantWhite

Only in Southern Tropic

MelonTroicalGuavaButterscotchLemongrassCoconutPungentPineappleBubblegumCitrus

Property

PropertyEnigmaSouthern Tropic
Alpha acid13.5–19.4%12.6–18.1%
Beta acid4.5–7.1%5–6.5%
Co-humulone37–43%26–30%
Total oil1.8–3 mL-
Myrcene23–30%19–46%
Humulene12–19%14–40%
Caryophyllene6–8%6–14%
Farnesene9–12%8–11%
OriginAustraliaSouth Africa
PurposeAromaBittering

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