Southern TropicvsHallertau Tradition
Southern Tropic (bittering) and Hallertau Tradition (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
Hallertau Tradition
Alpha acid
4.6–7%
Beta acid
3–6%
Total oil
0.5–1.9 mL
Germany
Key differences
When to pick Southern Tropic
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Hallertau Tradition
- 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 Hallertau Tradition
EarthyGrassyNectarFruityNoble
Property
| Property | Southern Tropic | Hallertau Tradition |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12.6–18.1% | 4.6–7% |
| Beta acid | 5–6.5% | 3–6% |
| Co-humulone | 26–30% | 23–30% |
| Total oil | - | 0.5–1.9 mL |
| Myrcene | 19–46% | 17–32% |
| Humulene | 14–40% | 35–50% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–14% | 10–15% |
| Farnesene | 8–11% | 0–1% |
| Origin | South Africa | Germany |
| Purpose | Bittering | Aroma |
Crystal