Southern TropicvsCentennial
Southern Tropic (bittering) and Centennial (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Southern Tropic
Alpha acid
12.6–18.1%
Beta acid
5–6.5%
Total oil
-
South Africa
Centennial
Alpha acid
7–12%
Beta acid
3.5–5.5%
Total oil
1–3 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Southern Tropic
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Centennial
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Citrus
Only in Southern Tropic
MelonTroicalGuavaButterscotchLemongrassCoconutPungentPineappleBubblegum
Only in Centennial
PineFloralGrapefruitTangerine
Property
| Property | Southern Tropic | Centennial |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12.6–18.1% | 7–12% |
| Beta acid | 5–6.5% | 3.5–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 26–30% | 23–30% |
| Total oil | - | 1–3 mL |
| Myrcene | 19–46% | 55–65% |
| Humulene | 14–40% | 10–20% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–14% | 5–7% |
| Farnesene | 8–11% | 0–1% |
| Origin | South Africa | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |