Southern TropicvsColumbus
Southern Tropic (bittering) and Columbus (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
Columbus
Alpha acid
14–18%
Beta acid
4.5–6%
Total oil
2.5–4.5 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Southern Tropic
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick Columbus
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
PungentCitrus
Only in Southern Tropic
MelonTroicalGuavaButterscotchLemongrassCoconutPineappleBubblegum
Only in Columbus
EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurrySpicyFloralDankCannabis
Property
| Property | Southern Tropic | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12.6–18.1% | 14–18% |
| Beta acid | 5–6.5% | 4.5–6% |
| Co-humulone | 26–30% | 28–35% |
| Total oil | - | 2.5–4.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 19–46% | 45–55% |
| Humulene | 14–40% | 9–14% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–14% | 6–10% |
| Farnesene | 8–11% | 0–1% |
| Origin | South Africa | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |