Southern TropicvsCluster
Southern Tropic (bittering) and Cluster (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
Cluster
Alpha acid
5.5–9%
Beta acid
4.5–6%
Total oil
0.4–1 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Southern Tropic
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Cluster
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Southern Tropic
MelonTroicalGuavaButterscotchLemongrassCoconutPungentPineappleBubblegumCitrus
Only in Cluster
FloralEarthySweet
Property
| Property | Southern Tropic | Cluster |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12.6–18.1% | 5.5–9% |
| Beta acid | 5–6.5% | 4.5–6% |
| Co-humulone | 26–30% | 33–43% |
| Total oil | - | 0.4–1 mL |
| Myrcene | 19–46% | 38–46% |
| Humulene | 14–40% | 15–20% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–14% | 8–10% |
| Farnesene | 8–11% | 0–1% |
| Origin | South Africa | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |