LibertyvsStirling

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

Liberty

Bittering

Alpha acid

3–6.5%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

0.6–1.8 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 Liberty

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Stirling

  • 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
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

FloralHerbalSpicy

Only in Liberty

NobleDelicateCitrusLemon

Only in Stirling

Citus

Property

PropertyLibertyStirling
Alpha acid3–6.5%6–12%
Beta acid3–4%4–6%
Co-humulone22–30%21–28%
Total oil0.6–1.8 mL1.3–1.9 mL
Myrcene15–25%44–48%
Humulene35–45%19–23%
Caryophyllene10–15%5–7%
Farnesene0–1%11–17%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

Related comparisons