Southern TropicvsColumbia
Southern Tropic (bittering) and Columbia (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
Columbia
Alpha acid
5–9%
Beta acid
3–4%
Total oil
1–2 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 Columbia
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
PungentPineappleCitrus
Only in Southern Tropic
MelonTroicalGuavaButterscotchLemongrassCoconutBubblegum
Only in Columbia
LemonNoble
Property
| Property | Southern Tropic | Columbia |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12.6–18.1% | 5–9% |
| Beta acid | 5–6.5% | 3–4% |
| Co-humulone | 26–30% | 40% |
| Total oil | - | 1–2 mL |
| Myrcene | 19–46% | 45–55% |
| Humulene | 14–40% | 15–19% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–14% | 9–12% |
| Farnesene | 8–11% | 3–5% |
| Origin | South Africa | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |