TropicavsSummit

Tropica (dual purpose) and Summit (bittering) 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

Summit

Bittering

Alpha acid

15–17.5%

Beta acid

4–6.5%

Total oil

1.5–3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Tropica

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Summit

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

OrangeDank

Only in Tropica

PineappleMandarinTropical

Only in Summit

Black currantAniseIncenseGrapefruitTangerineEarthyCitrusOnionGarlicCannabis

Property

PropertyTropicaSummit
Alpha acid8.8%15–17.5%
Beta acid3%4–6.5%
Co-humulone-26–33%
Total oil-1.5–3 mL
Myrcene-30–40%
Humulene-18–22%
Caryophyllene-12–16%
Farnesene-0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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