TropicavsSantiam

Tropica (dual purpose) and Santiam (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

Santiam

Aroma

Alpha acid

5–8.5%

Beta acid

5.3–8.5%

Total oil

1–2.2 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Tropica

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Santiam

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

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Tropica

PineappleMandarinOrangeTropicalDank

Only in Santiam

FloralSpicyBlack currant

Property

PropertyTropicaSantiam
Alpha acid8.8%5–8.5%
Beta acid3%5.3–8.5%
Co-humulone-18–24%
Total oil-1–2.2 mL
Myrcene-15–25%
Humulene-20–30%
Caryophyllene-6–9%
Farnesene-14–18%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

Related comparisons