NuggetvsSouthern Tropic

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

Nugget

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9.5–16%

Beta acid

3–5.8%

Total oil

0.9–3.3 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 Nugget

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

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

CitrusPineappleCoconut

Only in Nugget

HerbalGingerGeraniumLycheeHerbalEarthy

Only in Southern Tropic

MelonTroicalGuavaButterscotchLemongrassPungentBubblegum

Property

PropertyNuggetSouthern Tropic
Alpha acid9.5–16%12.6–18.1%
Beta acid3–5.8%5–6.5%
Co-humulone22–30%26–30%
Total oil0.9–3.3 mL-
Myrcene48–59%19–46%
Humulene12–22%14–40%
Caryophyllene7–10%6–14%
Farnesene0–1%8–11%
OriginUnited StatesSouth Africa
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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