Epic
Alpha acid
3–5%
Beta acid
1.7–2.5%
Total oil
0.4–0.8 mL
United Kingdom
Sterling
Alpha acid
5.5–8.5%
Beta acid
4–6%
Total oil
1–2 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Epic
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
When to pick Sterling
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Herbal
Only in Epic
FruityBerry
Only in Sterling
NobleSpicyFloral
Property
| Property | Epic | Sterling |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 3–5% | 5.5–8.5% |
| Beta acid | 1.7–2.5% | 4–6% |
| Co-humulone | 30–33% | 22–28% |
| Total oil | 0.4–0.8 mL | 1–2 mL |
| Myrcene | 11–12% | 35–45% |
| Humulene | 41–43% | 16–18% |
| Caryophyllene | 1–2% | 5–8% |
| Farnesene | 1–2% | 15–19% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Aroma |