Southern TropicvsUltra
Southern Tropic (bittering) and Ultra (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
Ultra
Alpha acid
3–9.7%
Beta acid
3.6–5%
Total oil
0.8–1.5 mL
United States
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 Ultra
- 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 Ultra
MildPleasantFloral
Property
| Property | Southern Tropic | Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12.6–18.1% | 3–9.7% |
| Beta acid | 5–6.5% | 3.6–5% |
| Co-humulone | 26–30% | 25–35% |
| Total oil | - | 0.8–1.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 19–46% | 50–60% |
| Humulene | 14–40% | 10–15% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–14% | 6–9% |
| Farnesene | 8–11% | 0–1% |
| Origin | South Africa | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Aroma |
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