Hallertau BlancvsSterling

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

Hallertau Blanc

Aroma

Alpha acid

9–12%

Beta acid

4–7%

Total oil

0.8–2.2 mL

Germany

Sterling

Aroma

Alpha acid

5.5–8.5%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

1–2 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Hallertau Blanc

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Sterling

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Hallertau Blanc

PineappleGooseberryWhiteGrapesLemongrassPassion fruitCleanSauvignon

Only in Sterling

NobleHerbalSpicyFloral

Property

PropertyHallertau BlancSterling
Alpha acid9–12%5.5–8.5%
Beta acid4–7%4–6%
Co-humulone22–35%22–28%
Total oil0.8–2.2 mL1–2 mL
Myrcene50–75%35–45%
Humulene0–3%16–18%
Caryophyllene0–2%5–8%
Farnesene0–1%15–19%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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