Southern TropicvsHuell Melon
Southern Tropic (bittering) and Huell Melon (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
Huell Melon
Alpha acid
6.9–8%
Beta acid
6–8%
Total oil
0.8–1.2 mL
Germany
Key differences
When to pick Southern Tropic
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Huell Melon
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Melon
Only in Southern Tropic
TroicalGuavaButterscotchLemongrassCoconutPungentPineappleBubblegumCitrus
Only in Huell Melon
StrawberryHoneydewFruitySweetOrangeVanilla
Property
| Property | Southern Tropic | Huell Melon |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12.6–18.1% | 6.9–8% |
| Beta acid | 5–6.5% | 6–8% |
| Co-humulone | 26–30% | 25–30% |
| Total oil | - | 0.8–1.2 mL |
| Myrcene | 19–46% | 35–37% |
| Humulene | 14–40% | 10–20% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–14% | 5–10% |
| Farnesene | 8–11% | 0–1% |
| Origin | South Africa | Germany |
| Purpose | Bittering | Aroma |