EnigmavsStirling

Enigma (aroma) and Stirling (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Enigma

Aroma

Alpha acid

13.5–19.4%

Beta acid

4.5–7.1%

Total oil

1.8–3 mL

Australia

Stirling

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

6–12%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

1.3–1.9 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Enigma

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Stirling

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Enigma

TropicalBerryStone fruitRaspberryRedcurrantWhite

Only in Stirling

HerbalCitusSpicyFloral

Property

PropertyEnigmaStirling
Alpha acid13.5–19.4%6–12%
Beta acid4.5–7.1%4–6%
Co-humulone37–43%21–28%
Total oil1.8–3 mL1.3–1.9 mL
Myrcene23–30%44–48%
Humulene12–19%19–23%
Caryophyllene6–8%5–7%
Farnesene9–12%11–17%
OriginAustraliaUnited States
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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