Southern BrewervsWillamette

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

Southern Brewer

Bittering

Alpha acid

8–12%

Beta acid

2.5–5%

Total oil

0.4–1.5 mL

South Africa

Willamette

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

4–7.2%

Beta acid

3–4.5%

Total oil

0.6–1.6 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Southern Brewer

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Willamette

  • 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 Brewer

EarthyWoody

Only in Willamette

CitrusIncenseElderberryCaramelCurryFloral

Property

PropertySouthern BrewerWillamette
Alpha acid8–12%4–7.2%
Beta acid2.5–5%3–4.5%
Co-humulone38–41%28–35%
Total oil0.4–1.5 mL0.6–1.6 mL
Myrcene-30–40%
Humulene-20–27%
Caryophyllene-7–8%
Farnesene-5–6%
OriginSouth AfricaUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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