MosaicvsSouthern Tropic

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

Mosaic

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11.5–13.5%

Beta acid

3.2–3.9%

Total oil

1–1.5 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 Mosaic

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Southern Tropic

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusBubblegum

Only in Mosaic

BlueberryTropicalGrassyPineSpicyTangerinePapayaRoseEarthyBlossomGrapefruit

Only in Southern Tropic

MelonTroicalGuavaButterscotchLemongrassCoconutPungentPineapple

Property

PropertyMosaicSouthern Tropic
Alpha acid11.5–13.5%12.6–18.1%
Beta acid3.2–3.9%5–6.5%
Co-humulone24–26%26–30%
Total oil1–1.5 mL-
Myrcene47–55%19–46%
Humulene10–16%14–40%
Caryophyllene3–8%6–14%
Farnesene0–1%8–11%
OriginUnited StatesSouth Africa
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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