Citra
Alpha acid
10–15%
Beta acid
3–4.5%
Total oil
1.5–3 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 Citra
- 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
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Sterling
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Floral
Only in Citra
CitrusGrapefruitPeachMelonLimeGooseberryPassion fruitLychee
Only in Sterling
NobleHerbalSpicy
Property
| Property | Citra | Sterling |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 10–15% | 5.5–8.5% |
| Beta acid | 3–4.5% | 4–6% |
| Co-humulone | 20–35% | 22–28% |
| Total oil | 1.5–3 mL | 1–2 mL |
| Myrcene | 60–70% | 35–45% |
| Humulene | 7–13% | 16–18% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–8% | 5–8% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 15–19% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |