Nelson SauvinvsSouthern Tropic
Nelson Sauvin (aroma) and Southern Tropic (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Nelson Sauvin
Alpha acid
10–13%
Beta acid
5–8%
Total oil
0.8–1.5 mL
New Zealand
Southern Tropic
Alpha acid
12.6–18.1%
Beta acid
5–6.5%
Total oil
-
South Africa
Key differences
When to pick Nelson Sauvin
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
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 Nelson Sauvin
WhiteFruityGooseberryGrapesSauvignon
Only in Southern Tropic
MelonTroicalGuavaButterscotchLemongrassCoconutPungentPineappleBubblegumCitrus
Property
| Property | Nelson Sauvin | Southern Tropic |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 10–13% | 12.6–18.1% |
| Beta acid | 5–8% | 5–6.5% |
| Co-humulone | 20–25% | 26–30% |
| Total oil | 0.8–1.5 mL | - |
| Myrcene | 20–45% | 19–46% |
| Humulene | 25–37% | 14–40% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–11% | 6–14% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 8–11% |
| Origin | New Zealand | South Africa |
| Purpose | Aroma | Bittering |
Enigma
Hallertau Blanc