Hallertau TraditionvsSterling

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

Hallertau Tradition

Aroma

Alpha acid

4.6–7%

Beta acid

3–6%

Total oil

0.5–1.9 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 Tradition

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
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Noble

Only in Hallertau Tradition

EarthyGrassyNectarFruity

Only in Sterling

HerbalSpicyFloral

Property

PropertyHallertau TraditionSterling
Alpha acid4.6–7%5.5–8.5%
Beta acid3–6%4–6%
Co-humulone23–30%22–28%
Total oil0.5–1.9 mL1–2 mL
Myrcene17–32%35–45%
Humulene35–50%16–18%
Caryophyllene10–15%5–8%
Farnesene0–1%15–19%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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