AltusvsSterling

Altus and Sterling are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Altus

Aroma

Alpha acid

15–18.5%

Beta acid

4–5.2%

Total oil

3–4.4 mL

United States

Sterling

Aroma

Alpha acid

5.5–8.5%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

1–2 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Altus

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma

When to pick Sterling

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Spicy

Only in Altus

ResinTangerine

Only in Sterling

NobleHerbalFloral

Property

PropertyAltusSterling
Alpha acid15–18.5%5.5–8.5%
Beta acid4–5.2%4–6%
Co-humulone26–29%22–28%
Total oil3–4.4 mL1–2 mL
Myrcene-35–45%
Humulene-16–18%
Caryophyllene-5–8%
Farnesene-15–19%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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