Southern DawnvsNorthdown
Southern Dawn and Northdown are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Southern Dawn
Alpha acid
11.2–13.5%
Beta acid
4.3–5.9%
Total oil
-
South Africa
Northdown
Alpha acid
7–10%
Beta acid
4–5.5%
Total oil
1.2–2.5 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Southern Dawn
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Northdown
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Spicy
Only in Southern Dawn
QuinceLemongrassGingerChamomileStrawberryCitrusFruityHerbal
Only in Northdown
FloralPineCedarBerry
Property
| Property | Southern Dawn | Northdown |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 11.2–13.5% | 7–10% |
| Beta acid | 4.3–5.9% | 4–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 31–33% | 24–32% |
| Total oil | - | 1.2–2.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 22–45% | 23–29% |
| Humulene | 17–25% | 40–45% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–11% | 13–17% |
| Farnesene | 4–10% | 0–1% |
| Origin | South Africa | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |
Admiral