Southern TropicvsGolding
Southern Tropic (bittering) and Golding (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
Golding
Alpha acid
4–6%
Beta acid
2–3%
Total oil
0.4–1 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 Golding
- 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 Golding
FloralDelicateSweet
Property
| Property | Southern Tropic | Golding |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12.6–18.1% | 4–6% |
| Beta acid | 5–6.5% | 2–3% |
| Co-humulone | 26–30% | 20% |
| Total oil | - | 0.4–1 mL |
| Myrcene | 19–46% | 25–35% |
| Humulene | 14–40% | 35–45% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–14% | 13–16% |
| Farnesene | 8–11% | 0–1% |
| Origin | South Africa | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Aroma |
Fuggle
Styrian Golding