Southern BrewervsAmarillo
Southern Brewer (bittering) and Amarillo (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Southern Brewer
Alpha acid
8–12%
Beta acid
2.5–5%
Total oil
0.4–1.5 mL
South Africa
Amarillo
Alpha acid
7–11%
Beta acid
5.5–8%
Total oil
1–2.3 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Southern Brewer
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick Amarillo
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Southern Brewer
EarthyWoody
Only in Amarillo
FloralSpicyTropicalCitrusOrangeLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank
Property
| Property | Southern Brewer | Amarillo |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 8–12% | 7–11% |
| Beta acid | 2.5–5% | 5.5–8% |
| Co-humulone | 38–41% | 21–24% |
| Total oil | 0.4–1.5 mL | 1–2.3 mL |
| Myrcene | - | 40–70% |
| Humulene | - | 19–24% |
| Caryophyllene | - | 7–10% |
| Farnesene | - | 6–9% |
| Origin | South Africa | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Aroma |
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