Golding
Alpha acid
4–6%
Beta acid
2–3%
Total oil
0.4–1 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 Golding
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
Floral
Only in Golding
DelicateSweet
Only in Sterling
NobleHerbalSpicy
Property
| Property | Golding | Sterling |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 4–6% | 5.5–8.5% |
| Beta acid | 2–3% | 4–6% |
| Co-humulone | 20% | 22–28% |
| Total oil | 0.4–1 mL | 1–2 mL |
| Myrcene | 25–35% | 35–45% |
| Humulene | 35–45% | 16–18% |
| Caryophyllene | 13–16% | 5–8% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 15–19% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Aroma |
Fuggle
Styrian Golding