First GoldvsStirling
First Gold and Stirling are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
First Gold
Alpha acid
5.6–10%
Beta acid
2.3–4.1%
Total oil
0.7–1.5 mL
United Kingdom
Stirling
Alpha acid
6–12%
Beta acid
4–6%
Total oil
1.3–1.9 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick First Gold
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Stirling
- 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
HerbalHerbalSpicyFloral
Only in First Gold
TangerineApricotMagnoliaRedberryOrange
Only in Stirling
Citus
Property
| Property | First Gold | Stirling |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5.6–10% | 6–12% |
| Beta acid | 2.3–4.1% | 4–6% |
| Co-humulone | 29–35% | 21–28% |
| Total oil | 0.7–1.5 mL | 1.3–1.9 mL |
| Myrcene | 24–28% | 44–48% |
| Humulene | 20–24% | 19–23% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–7% | 5–7% |
| Farnesene | 2–4% | 11–17% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |