CentennialvsSterling
Centennial (dual purpose) and Sterling (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Centennial
Alpha acid
7–12%
Beta acid
3.5–5.5%
Total oil
1–3 mL
United States
Sterling
Alpha acid
5.5–8.5%
Beta acid
4–6%
Total oil
1–2 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Centennial
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
When to pick Sterling
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Floral
Only in Centennial
PineCitrusGrapefruitTangerine
Only in Sterling
NobleHerbalSpicy
Property
| Property | Centennial | Sterling |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 7–12% | 5.5–8.5% |
| Beta acid | 3.5–5.5% | 4–6% |
| Co-humulone | 23–30% | 22–28% |
| Total oil | 1–3 mL | 1–2 mL |
| Myrcene | 55–65% | 35–45% |
| Humulene | 10–20% | 16–18% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–7% | 5–8% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 15–19% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |