HBC 586vsStirling

HBC 586 and Stirling are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

HBC 586

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

18–22%

Beta acid

11–14%

Total oil

2.5–4.5 mL

United States

Stirling

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

6–12%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

1.3–1.9 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick HBC 586

  • 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
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Stirling

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

HerbalSpicy

Only in HBC 586

MangoLycheeCitrusGuava

Only in Stirling

CitusFloral

Property

PropertyHBC 586Stirling
Alpha acid18–22%6–12%
Beta acid11–14%4–6%
Co-humulone35–40%21–28%
Total oil2.5–4.5 mL1.3–1.9 mL
Myrcene55–65%44–48%
Humulene8–12%19–23%
Caryophyllene8–10%5–7%
Farnesene0–1%11–17%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose