Southern TropicvsSpalt
Southern Tropic (bittering) and Spalt (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
Spalt
Alpha acid
2.5–5.7%
Beta acid
3–5%
Total oil
0.5–0.9 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 Spalt
- 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 Spalt
NobleEarthyHerbalFloral
Property
| Property | Southern Tropic | Spalt |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12.6–18.1% | 2.5–5.7% |
| Beta acid | 5–6.5% | 3–5% |
| Co-humulone | 26–30% | 22–29% |
| Total oil | - | 0.5–0.9 mL |
| Myrcene | 19–46% | 20–35% |
| Humulene | 14–40% | 20–30% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–14% | 8–13% |
| Farnesene | 8–11% | 12–18% |
| Origin | South Africa | Germany |
| Purpose | Bittering | Aroma |
Liberty