Southern DawnvsWillamette

Southern Dawn and Willamette are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Southern Dawn

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11.2–13.5%

Beta acid

4.3–5.9%

Total oil

-

South Africa

Willamette

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

4–7.2%

Beta acid

3–4.5%

Total oil

0.6–1.6 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Southern Dawn

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Willamette

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Southern Dawn

QuinceLemongrassGingerChamomileStrawberryFruityHerbalSpicy

Only in Willamette

IncenseElderberryCaramelCurryFloral

Property

PropertySouthern DawnWillamette
Alpha acid11.2–13.5%4–7.2%
Beta acid4.3–5.9%3–4.5%
Co-humulone31–33%28–35%
Total oil-0.6–1.6 mL
Myrcene22–45%30–40%
Humulene17–25%20–27%
Caryophyllene8–11%7–8%
Farnesene4–10%5–6%
OriginSouth AfricaUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

Related comparisons