Southern CrossvsChinook
Southern Cross and Chinook are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Southern Cross
Alpha acid
11–14%
Beta acid
5–7%
Total oil
1.2–2 mL
New Zealand
Chinook
Alpha acid
11.5–15%
Beta acid
3–4%
Total oil
1–2.7 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Southern Cross
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
When to pick Chinook
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
PineSpicy
Only in Southern Cross
LemonLimeCitrusTropicalZest
Only in Chinook
ResinGrapefruitDankCannabis
Property
| Property | Southern Cross | Chinook |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 11–14% | 11.5–15% |
| Beta acid | 5–7% | 3–4% |
| Co-humulone | 25–28% | 27–35% |
| Total oil | 1.2–2 mL | 1–2.7 mL |
| Myrcene | 31–55% | 20–30% |
| Humulene | 13–21% | 18–24% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–8% | 9–11% |
| Farnesene | 6–8% | 0–1% |
| Origin | New Zealand | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |