Southern CrossvsNelson Sauvin
Southern Cross (dual purpose) and Nelson Sauvin (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
Nelson Sauvin
Alpha acid
10–13%
Beta acid
5–8%
Total oil
0.8–1.5 mL
New Zealand
Key differences
When to pick Southern Cross
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Nelson Sauvin
- 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 Nelson Sauvin
WhiteFruityGooseberryGrapesSauvignon
Property
| Property | Southern Cross | Nelson Sauvin |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 11–14% | 10–13% |
| Beta acid | 5–7% | 5–8% |
| Co-humulone | 25–28% | 20–25% |
| Total oil | 1.2–2 mL | 0.8–1.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 31–55% | 20–45% |
| Humulene | 13–21% | 25–37% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–8% | 6–11% |
| Farnesene | 6–8% | 0–1% |
| Origin | New Zealand | New Zealand |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |
Enigma
Hallertau Blanc