HersbruckervsSterling
Hersbrucker and Sterling are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Hersbrucker
Alpha acid
1.5–5%
Beta acid
2.5–6%
Total oil
0.5–1.3 mL
Germany
Sterling
Alpha acid
5.5–8.5%
Beta acid
4–6%
Total oil
1–2 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Hersbrucker
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 Hersbrucker
HayOrangeTobacco
Only in Sterling
HerbalSpicyFloral
Property
| Property | Hersbrucker | Sterling |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 1.5–5% | 5.5–8.5% |
| Beta acid | 2.5–6% | 4–6% |
| Co-humulone | 17–25% | 22–28% |
| Total oil | 0.5–1.3 mL | 1–2 mL |
| Myrcene | 15–30% | 35–45% |
| Humulene | 20–30% | 16–18% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–13% | 5–8% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 15–19% |
| Origin | Germany | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Aroma |