McKenzie
Alpha acid
9–11%
Beta acid
8–9%
Total oil
2–3 mL
United States
Sterling
Alpha acid
5.5–8.5%
Beta acid
4–6%
Total oil
1–2 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick McKenzie
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Sterling
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Floral
Only in McKenzie
GrapefruitLemonNectarineMelonPineThymeStone fruitDank
Only in Sterling
NobleHerbalSpicy
Property
| Property | McKenzie | Sterling |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 9–11% | 5.5–8.5% |
| Beta acid | 8–9% | 4–6% |
| Co-humulone | - | 22–28% |
| Total oil | 2–3 mL | 1–2 mL |
| Myrcene | - | 35–45% |
| Humulene | - | 16–18% |
| Caryophyllene | - | 5–8% |
| Farnesene | - | 15–19% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Aroma |