Southern TropicvsStrisselspalt
Southern Tropic (bittering) and Strisselspalt (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
Strisselspalt
Alpha acid
1–4%
Beta acid
3–6%
Total oil
0.6–0.8 mL
France
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
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Strisselspalt
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Citrus
Only in Southern Tropic
MelonTroicalGuavaButterscotchLemongrassCoconutPungentPineappleBubblegum
Only in Strisselspalt
SpicyFloralHerbal
Property
| Property | Southern Tropic | Strisselspalt |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12.6–18.1% | 1–4% |
| Beta acid | 5–6.5% | 3–6% |
| Co-humulone | 26–30% | 20–27% |
| Total oil | - | 0.6–0.8 mL |
| Myrcene | 19–46% | 35–52% |
| Humulene | 14–40% | 13–21% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–14% | 8–10% |
| Farnesene | 8–11% | 0–1% |
| Origin | South Africa | France |
| Purpose | Bittering | Aroma |
Crystal
Hersbrucker