Barbe RougevsSterling

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

Barbe Rouge

Aroma

Alpha acid

3.8–10%

Beta acid

3.3–4.6%

Total oil

1.1–3 mL

France

Sterling

Aroma

Alpha acid

5.5–8.5%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

1–2 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Barbe Rouge

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Sterling

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

FloralHerbal

Only in Barbe Rouge

CitrusKumquatOrangeLimeRedcurrantStrawberryRaspberryBerry

Only in Sterling

NobleSpicy

Property

PropertyBarbe RougeSterling
Alpha acid3.8–10%5.5–8.5%
Beta acid3.3–4.6%4–6%
Co-humulone24–28%22–28%
Total oil1.1–3 mL1–2 mL
Myrcene35–60%35–45%
Humulene15–25%16–18%
Caryophyllene2–4%5–8%
Farnesene0–4%15–19%
OriginFranceUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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