Archer
Alpha acid
4–6%
Beta acid
2–3%
Total oil
0.6–0.8 mL
United Kingdom
Sterling
Alpha acid
5.5–8.5%
Beta acid
4–6%
Total oil
1–2 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Archer
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
When to pick Sterling
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Floral
Only in Archer
ApricotLimeCitrusPeach
Only in Sterling
NobleHerbalSpicy
Property
| Property | Archer | Sterling |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 4–6% | 5.5–8.5% |
| Beta acid | 2–3% | 4–6% |
| Co-humulone | 32–38% | 22–28% |
| Total oil | 0.6–0.8 mL | 1–2 mL |
| Myrcene | 20–25% | 35–45% |
| Humulene | 26–30% | 16–18% |
| Caryophyllene | - | 5–8% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 15–19% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Aroma |