Southern CrossvsEkuanot
Southern Cross (dual purpose) and Ekuanot (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Southern Cross
Alpha acid
11–14%
Beta acid
5–7%
Total oil
1.2–2 mL
New Zealand
Ekuanot
Alpha acid
13–15.5%
Beta acid
4–5.5%
Total oil
2–4.5 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Southern Cross
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
When to pick Ekuanot
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
LemonLimeCitrusTropical
Only in Southern Cross
PineSpicyZest
Only in Ekuanot
OrangeBerryPapayaAppleSageEucalyptusHerbalMelonGuava
Property
| Property | Southern Cross | Ekuanot |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 11–14% | 13–15.5% |
| Beta acid | 5–7% | 4–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 25–28% | 31–38% |
| Total oil | 1.2–2 mL | 2–4.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 31–55% | 30–45% |
| Humulene | 13–21% | 12–20% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–8% | 8–12% |
| Farnesene | 6–8% | 0–1% |
| Origin | New Zealand | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |
Sorachi Ace