Southern TropicvsAfrican Queen

Southern Tropic (bittering) and African Queen (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Southern Tropic

Bittering

Alpha acid

12.6–18.1%

Beta acid

5–6.5%

Total oil

-

South Africa

African Queen

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

10–17%

Beta acid

3.9–6.2%

Total oil

0.7–1.5 mL

South Africa

Key differences

When to pick Southern Tropic

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick African Queen

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

LemongrassBubblegumCitrus

Only in Southern Tropic

MelonTroicalGuavaButterscotchCoconutPungentPineapple

Only in African Queen

DankBlueberryStone fruitBlack currantGooseberryCassisChiliesGazpacho

Property

PropertySouthern TropicAfrican Queen
Alpha acid12.6–18.1%10–17%
Beta acid5–6.5%3.9–6.2%
Co-humulone26–30%22–30%
Total oil-0.7–1.5 mL
Myrcene19–46%20–29%
Humulene14–40%21–30%
Caryophyllene6–14%10–17%
Farnesene8–11%5–7%
OriginSouth AfricaSouth Africa
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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