Chelan
Alpha acid
12–15%
Beta acid
8.5–10%
Total oil
1.5–1.9 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 Chelan
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick Sterling
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Floral
Only in Chelan
CitrusFruityMild
Only in Sterling
NobleHerbalSpicy
Property
| Property | Chelan | Sterling |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12–15% | 5.5–8.5% |
| Beta acid | 8.5–10% | 4–6% |
| Co-humulone | 33–35% | 22–28% |
| Total oil | 1.5–1.9 mL | 1–2 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–55% | 35–45% |
| Humulene | 12–15% | 16–18% |
| Caryophyllene | 9–12% | 5–8% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 15–19% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Aroma |