AstravsStirling

Astra and Stirling are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Astra

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

7–10%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

1–3 mL

Australia

Stirling

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

6–12%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

1.3–1.9 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Astra

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Stirling

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

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Astra

TropicalSweetPeachWhiteMelonGrassyGrapefruitHoney

Only in Stirling

HerbalCitusSpicyFloral

Property

PropertyAstraStirling
Alpha acid7–10%6–12%
Beta acid4–6%4–6%
Co-humulone26–28%21–28%
Total oil1–3 mL1.3–1.9 mL
Myrcene-44–48%
Humulene6–8%19–23%
Caryophyllene2–3%5–7%
Farnesene-11–17%
OriginAustraliaUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose