KohatuvsSterling

Kohatu (dual purpose) and Sterling (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Kohatu

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

6–7%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

1–2 mL

New Zealand

Sterling

Aroma

Alpha acid

5.5–8.5%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

1–2 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Kohatu

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Sterling

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Kohatu

Tropical

Only in Sterling

NobleHerbalSpicyFloral

Property

PropertyKohatuSterling
Alpha acid6–7%5.5–8.5%
Beta acid4–6%4–6%
Co-humulone20–25%22–28%
Total oil1–2 mL1–2 mL
Myrcene25–30%35–45%
Humulene30–40%16–18%
Caryophyllene11–16%5–8%
Farnesene0–1%15–19%
OriginNew ZealandUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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