Southern CrossvsHersbrucker
Southern Cross (dual purpose) and Hersbrucker (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
Hersbrucker
Alpha acid
1.5–5%
Beta acid
2.5–6%
Total oil
0.5–1.3 mL
Germany
Key differences
When to pick Southern Cross
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Hersbrucker
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Southern Cross
LemonLimePineSpicyCitrusTropicalZest
Only in Hersbrucker
NobleHayOrangeTobacco
Property
| Property | Southern Cross | Hersbrucker |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 11–14% | 1.5–5% |
| Beta acid | 5–7% | 2.5–6% |
| Co-humulone | 25–28% | 17–25% |
| Total oil | 1.2–2 mL | 0.5–1.3 mL |
| Myrcene | 31–55% | 15–30% |
| Humulene | 13–21% | 20–30% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–8% | 8–13% |
| Farnesene | 6–8% | 0–1% |
| Origin | New Zealand | Germany |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |
Liberty
Sorachi Ace