Hallertau TraditionvsSouthern Tropic
Hallertau Tradition (aroma) and Southern Tropic (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Hallertau Tradition
Alpha acid
4.6–7%
Beta acid
3–6%
Total oil
0.5–1.9 mL
Germany
Southern Tropic
Alpha acid
12.6–18.1%
Beta acid
5–6.5%
Total oil
-
South Africa
Key differences
When to pick Hallertau Tradition
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
When to pick Southern Tropic
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- 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 Hallertau Tradition
EarthyGrassyNectarFruityNoble
Only in Southern Tropic
MelonTroicalGuavaButterscotchLemongrassCoconutPungentPineappleBubblegumCitrus
Property
| Property | Hallertau Tradition | Southern Tropic |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 4.6–7% | 12.6–18.1% |
| Beta acid | 3–6% | 5–6.5% |
| Co-humulone | 23–30% | 26–30% |
| Total oil | 0.5–1.9 mL | - |
| Myrcene | 17–32% | 19–46% |
| Humulene | 35–50% | 14–40% |
| Caryophyllene | 10–15% | 6–14% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 8–11% |
| Origin | Germany | South Africa |
| Purpose | Aroma | Bittering |
Crystal