GlaciervsSouthern Tropic

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

Glacier

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

3.3–9.7%

Beta acid

5.4–10%

Total oil

0.5–1.5 mL

United States

Southern Tropic

Bittering

Alpha acid

12.6–18.1%

Beta acid

5–6.5%

Total oil

-

South Africa

Key differences

When to pick Glacier

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

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 Glacier

PlumBlackberryWoodyCedar

Only in Southern Tropic

MelonTroicalGuavaButterscotchLemongrassCoconutPungentPineappleBubblegumCitrus

Property

PropertyGlacierSouthern Tropic
Alpha acid3.3–9.7%12.6–18.1%
Beta acid5.4–10%5–6.5%
Co-humulone11–16%26–30%
Total oil0.5–1.5 mL-
Myrcene35–45%19–46%
Humulene25–35%14–40%
Caryophyllene8–13%6–14%
Farnesene0–1%8–11%
OriginUnited StatesSouth Africa
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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