Southern TropicvsEkuanot
Southern Tropic (bittering) and Ekuanot (aroma) 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
Ekuanot
Alpha acid
13–15.5%
Beta acid
4–5.5%
Total oil
2–4.5 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
When to pick Ekuanot
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
MelonGuavaCitrus
Only in Southern Tropic
TroicalButterscotchLemongrassCoconutPungentPineappleBubblegum
Only in Ekuanot
LemonLimeOrangeTropicalBerryPapayaAppleSageEucalyptusHerbal
Property
| Property | Southern Tropic | Ekuanot |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12.6–18.1% | 13–15.5% |
| Beta acid | 5–6.5% | 4–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 26–30% | 31–38% |
| Total oil | - | 2–4.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 19–46% | 30–45% |
| Humulene | 14–40% | 12–20% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–14% | 8–12% |
| Farnesene | 8–11% | 0–1% |
| Origin | South Africa | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Aroma |