TropicavsSamba

Tropica (dual purpose) and Samba (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Tropica

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8.8%

Beta acid

3%

Total oil

-

United States

Samba

Aroma

Alpha acid

8–12%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

1.5–2.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Tropica

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Samba

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

PineappleOrangeTropical

Only in Tropica

MandarinDank

Only in Samba

MangoStone fruitCandy

Property

PropertyTropicaSamba
Alpha acid8.8%8–12%
Beta acid3%4–6%
Co-humulone-28–32%
Total oil-1.5–2.5 mL
Myrcene--
Humulene--
Caryophyllene--
Farnesene--
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma