Southern TropicvsTomahawk

Southern Tropic (bittering) and Tomahawk (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

Tomahawk

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

15–17.5%

Beta acid

4.5–6%

Total oil

2.5–4.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Southern Tropic

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Tomahawk

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Southern Tropic

MelonTroicalGuavaButterscotchLemongrassCoconutPungentPineappleBubblegum

Only in Tomahawk

Black currantLicoriceCurryOnion

Property

PropertySouthern TropicTomahawk
Alpha acid12.6–18.1%15–17.5%
Beta acid5–6.5%4.5–6%
Co-humulone26–30%28–35%
Total oil-2.5–4.5 mL
Myrcene19–46%45–55%
Humulene14–40%9–14%
Caryophyllene6–14%6–10%
Farnesene8–11%0–1%
OriginSouth AfricaUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

Related comparisons