Southern TropicvsMosaic

Southern Tropic (bittering) and Mosaic (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Southern Tropic

Bittering

Alpha acid

12.6–18.1%

Beta acid

5–6.5%

Total oil

-

South Africa

Mosaic

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11.5–13.5%

Beta acid

3.2–3.9%

Total oil

1–1.5 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 Mosaic

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

BubblegumCitrus

Only in Southern Tropic

MelonTroicalGuavaButterscotchLemongrassCoconutPungentPineapple

Only in Mosaic

BlueberryTropicalGrassyPineSpicyTangerinePapayaRoseEarthyBlossomGrapefruit

Property

PropertySouthern TropicMosaic
Alpha acid12.6–18.1%11.5–13.5%
Beta acid5–6.5%3.2–3.9%
Co-humulone26–30%24–26%
Total oil-1–1.5 mL
Myrcene19–46%47–55%
Humulene14–40%10–16%
Caryophyllene6–14%3–8%
Farnesene8–11%0–1%
OriginSouth AfricaUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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