Southern DawnvsZeus
Southern Dawn (dual purpose) and Zeus (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Southern Dawn
Alpha acid
11.2–13.5%
Beta acid
4.3–5.9%
Total oil
-
South Africa
Zeus
Alpha acid
13–17.5%
Beta acid
4–6.5%
Total oil
2.4–4.5 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Southern Dawn
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Zeus
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Southern Dawn
QuinceLemongrassGingerChamomileStrawberryCitrusFruityHerbalSpicy
Only in Zeus
Black currantLicoriceCurryPungent
Property
| Property | Southern Dawn | Zeus |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 11.2–13.5% | 13–17.5% |
| Beta acid | 4.3–5.9% | 4–6.5% |
| Co-humulone | 31–33% | 28–40% |
| Total oil | - | 2.4–4.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 22–45% | 45–60% |
| Humulene | 17–25% | 9–18% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–11% | 6–11% |
| Farnesene | 4–10% | 0–1% |
| Origin | South Africa | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |