ElixirvsSterling

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

Elixir

Aroma

Alpha acid

4.6–7%

Beta acid

4.5–6.6%

Total oil

1.8–2.2 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 Elixir

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

When to pick Sterling

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

FloralSpicy

Only in Elixir

RoseCognacLeatherTobaccoCitrusTropicalTangerineOrangeSandalwood

Only in Sterling

NobleHerbal

Property

PropertyElixirSterling
Alpha acid4.6–7%5.5–8.5%
Beta acid4.5–6.6%4–6%
Co-humulone25–30%22–28%
Total oil1.8–2.2 mL1–2 mL
Myrcene65–75%35–45%
Humulene1–2%16–18%
Caryophyllene26–27%5–8%
Farnesene0–1%15–19%
OriginFranceUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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