HersbruckervsSouthern Tropic
Hersbrucker (aroma) and Southern Tropic (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Hersbrucker
Alpha acid
1.5–5%
Beta acid
2.5–6%
Total oil
0.5–1.3 mL
Germany
Southern Tropic
Alpha acid
12.6–18.1%
Beta acid
5–6.5%
Total oil
-
South Africa
Key differences
When to pick Hersbrucker
- 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 Hersbrucker
NobleHayOrangeTobacco
Only in Southern Tropic
MelonTroicalGuavaButterscotchLemongrassCoconutPungentPineappleBubblegumCitrus
Property
| Property | Hersbrucker | Southern Tropic |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 1.5–5% | 12.6–18.1% |
| Beta acid | 2.5–6% | 5–6.5% |
| Co-humulone | 17–25% | 26–30% |
| Total oil | 0.5–1.3 mL | - |
| Myrcene | 15–30% | 19–46% |
| Humulene | 20–30% | 14–40% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–13% | 6–14% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 8–11% |
| Origin | Germany | South Africa |
| Purpose | Aroma | Bittering |
Liberty