HerkulesvsStirling

Herkules (bittering) and Stirling (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Herkules

Bittering

Alpha acid

12–17%

Beta acid

4–5.5%

Total oil

1.4–2.4 mL

Germany

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 Herkules

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Stirling

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Herkules

CitrusMelon

Only in Stirling

HerbalCitusSpicyFloral

Property

PropertyHerkulesStirling
Alpha acid12–17%6–12%
Beta acid4–5.5%4–6%
Co-humulone32–38%21–28%
Total oil1.4–2.4 mL1.3–1.9 mL
Myrcene30–50%44–48%
Humulene30–45%19–23%
Caryophyllene7–12%5–7%
Farnesene0–1%11–17%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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