Southern AromavsSimcoe

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

Southern Aroma

Aroma

Alpha acid

3.6–7.3%

Beta acid

5.4–6%

Total oil

0.6–0.8 mL

South Africa

Simcoe

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11–15%

Beta acid

3–5%

Total oil

0.8–3.2 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Southern Aroma

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

When to pick Simcoe

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Southern Aroma

FloralHayHerbalStrawNobleBlack currant

Only in Simcoe

FruityEarthyGrapefruitPassion fruitPineBerryApricotBubblegumCitrus

Property

PropertySouthern AromaSimcoe
Alpha acid3.6–7.3%11–15%
Beta acid5.4–6%3–5%
Co-humulone19–25%15–21%
Total oil0.6–0.8 mL0.8–3.2 mL
Myrcene17–28%40–50%
Humulene22–23%15–20%
Caryophyllene13–15%8–14%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginSouth AfricaUnited States
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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