Southern PromisevsBarbe Rouge

Southern Promise (dual purpose) and Barbe Rouge (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Southern Promise

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9.5–14.5%

Beta acid

3.6–5.8%

Total oil

0.7–1.1 mL

South Africa

Barbe Rouge

Aroma

Alpha acid

3.8–10%

Beta acid

3.3–4.6%

Total oil

1.1–3 mL

France

Key differences

When to pick Southern Promise

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Barbe Rouge

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

HerbalBerryCitrusFloral

Only in Southern Promise

FruityWoody

Only in Barbe Rouge

KumquatOrangeLimeRedcurrantStrawberryRaspberry

Property

PropertySouthern PromiseBarbe Rouge
Alpha acid9.5–14.5%3.8–10%
Beta acid3.6–5.8%3.3–4.6%
Co-humulone20–22%24–28%
Total oil0.7–1.1 mL1.1–3 mL
Myrcene21–25%35–60%
Humulene23–27%15–25%
Caryophyllene7–11%2–4%
Farnesene0–1%0–4%
OriginSouth AfricaFrance
PurposeDual purposeAroma

Related comparisons