HersbruckervsSouthern Aroma

Hersbrucker and Southern Aroma are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Hersbrucker

Aroma

Alpha acid

1.5–5%

Beta acid

2.5–6%

Total oil

0.5–1.3 mL

Germany

Southern Aroma

Aroma

Alpha acid

3.6–7.3%

Beta acid

5.4–6%

Total oil

0.6–0.8 mL

South Africa

Key differences

When to pick Hersbrucker

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

When to pick Southern Aroma

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

NobleHay

Only in Hersbrucker

OrangeTobacco

Only in Southern Aroma

FloralHerbalStrawBlack currant

Property

PropertyHersbruckerSouthern Aroma
Alpha acid1.5–5%3.6–7.3%
Beta acid2.5–6%5.4–6%
Co-humulone17–25%19–25%
Total oil0.5–1.3 mL0.6–0.8 mL
Myrcene15–30%17–28%
Humulene20–30%22–23%
Caryophyllene8–13%13–15%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginGermanySouth Africa
PurposeAromaAroma

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