SambavsTropica

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

Samba

Aroma

Alpha acid

8–12%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

1.5–2.5 mL

United States

Tropica

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8.8%

Beta acid

3%

Total oil

-

United States

Key differences

When to pick Samba

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Tropica

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

TropicalPineappleOrange

Only in Samba

MangoStone fruitCandy

Only in Tropica

MandarinDank

Property

PropertySambaTropica
Alpha acid8–12%8.8%
Beta acid4–6%3%
Co-humulone28–32%-
Total oil1.5–2.5 mL-
Myrcene--
Humulene--
Caryophyllene--
Farnesene--
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaDual purpose