Southern TropicvsSterling
Southern Tropic (bittering) and Sterling (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
Sterling
Alpha acid
5.5–8.5%
Beta acid
4–6%
Total oil
1–2 mL
United States
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 Sterling
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- 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 Sterling
NobleHerbalSpicyFloral
Property
| Property | Southern Tropic | Sterling |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12.6–18.1% | 5.5–8.5% |
| Beta acid | 5–6.5% | 4–6% |
| Co-humulone | 26–30% | 22–28% |
| Total oil | - | 1–2 mL |
| Myrcene | 19–46% | 35–45% |
| Humulene | 14–40% | 16–18% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–14% | 5–8% |
| Farnesene | 8–11% | 15–19% |
| Origin | South Africa | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Aroma |