Southern TropicvsNelson Sauvin
Southern Tropic (bittering) and Nelson Sauvin (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
Nelson Sauvin
Alpha acid
10–13%
Beta acid
5–8%
Total oil
0.8–1.5 mL
New Zealand
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 Nelson Sauvin
- 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 Nelson Sauvin
WhiteFruityGooseberryGrapesSauvignon
Property
| Property | Southern Tropic | Nelson Sauvin |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12.6–18.1% | 10–13% |
| Beta acid | 5–6.5% | 5–8% |
| Co-humulone | 26–30% | 20–25% |
| Total oil | - | 0.8–1.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 19–46% | 20–45% |
| Humulene | 14–40% | 25–37% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–14% | 6–11% |
| Farnesene | 8–11% | 0–1% |
| Origin | South Africa | New Zealand |
| Purpose | Bittering | Aroma |
Enigma
Hallertau Blanc