Southern TropicvsEnigma
Southern Tropic (bittering) and Enigma (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
Enigma
Alpha acid
13.5–19.4%
Beta acid
4.5–7.1%
Total oil
1.8–3 mL
Australia
Key differences
When to pick Southern Tropic
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Enigma
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Southern Tropic
MelonTroicalGuavaButterscotchLemongrassCoconutPungentPineappleBubblegumCitrus
Only in Enigma
TropicalBerryStone fruitRaspberryRedcurrantWhite
Property
| Property | Southern Tropic | Enigma |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12.6–18.1% | 13.5–19.4% |
| Beta acid | 5–6.5% | 4.5–7.1% |
| Co-humulone | 26–30% | 37–43% |
| Total oil | - | 1.8–3 mL |
| Myrcene | 19–46% | 23–30% |
| Humulene | 14–40% | 12–19% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–14% | 6–8% |
| Farnesene | 8–11% | 9–12% |
| Origin | South Africa | Australia |
| Purpose | Bittering | Aroma |
Hallertau Blanc
Nelson Sauvin