Southern StarvsAmarillo
Southern Star (dual purpose) and Amarillo (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Southern Star
Alpha acid
12–18.6%
Beta acid
4–7.5%
Total oil
1.4–1.7 mL
South Africa
Amarillo
Alpha acid
7–11%
Beta acid
5.5–8%
Total oil
1–2.3 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Southern Star
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Amarillo
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
FloralCitrusTropicalOrange
Only in Southern Star
QuinceBerryPineappleTangerinePassion fruitPearCassisRoseCoffee
Only in Amarillo
SpicyLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank
Property
| Property | Southern Star | Amarillo |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12–18.6% | 7–11% |
| Beta acid | 4–7.5% | 5.5–8% |
| Co-humulone | 25–31% | 21–24% |
| Total oil | 1.4–1.7 mL | 1–2.3 mL |
| Myrcene | 32–38% | 40–70% |
| Humulene | 23–27% | 19–24% |
| Caryophyllene | 10–14% | 7–10% |
| Farnesene | 8–12% | 6–9% |
| Origin | South Africa | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |