Southern CrossvsSorachi Ace
Southern Cross and Sorachi Ace 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
Sorachi Ace
Alpha acid
11–16%
Beta acid
6–8%
Total oil
1–3 mL
Japan
Key differences
When to pick Southern Cross
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
When to pick Sorachi Ace
- 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
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
LemonCitrus
Only in Southern Cross
LimePineSpicyTropicalZest
Only in Sorachi Ace
DillWoodyTobaccoHerbal
Property
| Property | Southern Cross | Sorachi Ace |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 11–14% | 11–16% |
| Beta acid | 5–7% | 6–8% |
| Co-humulone | 25–28% | 23–28% |
| Total oil | 1.2–2 mL | 1–3 mL |
| Myrcene | 31–55% | 45–55% |
| Humulene | 13–21% | 20–26% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–8% | 7–11% |
| Farnesene | 6–8% | 2–5% |
| Origin | New Zealand | Japan |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |