NorthdownvsSovereign

Northdown (dual purpose) and Sovereign (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Northdown

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

7–10%

Beta acid

4–5.5%

Total oil

1.2–2.5 mL

United States

Sovereign

Aroma

Alpha acid

4.5–6.5%

Beta acid

2.1–3.1%

Total oil

0.6–1 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Northdown

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Sovereign

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Northdown

PineCedarBerrySpicy

Only in Sovereign

MintFruityGrassyHerbalPear

Property

PropertyNorthdownSovereign
Alpha acid7–10%4.5–6.5%
Beta acid4–5.5%2.1–3.1%
Co-humulone24–32%26–30%
Total oil1.2–2.5 mL0.6–1 mL
Myrcene23–29%20–31%
Humulene40–45%20–27%
Caryophyllene13–17%7–9%
Farnesene0–1%3–4%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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