MistralvsStirling

Mistral and Stirling are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Mistral

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

6.5–8.5%

Beta acid

3.1–3.8%

Total oil

1–1.5 mL

France

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 Mistral

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • 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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Mistral

CitrusMelonGrapesWinePearPassion fruitKumquatMango

Only in Stirling

HerbalCitusSpicy

Property

PropertyMistralStirling
Alpha acid6.5–8.5%6–12%
Beta acid3.1–3.8%4–6%
Co-humulone29–39%21–28%
Total oil1–1.5 mL1.3–1.9 mL
Myrcene59–65%44–48%
Humulene9–13%19–23%
Caryophyllene3–4%5–7%
Farnesene2–4%11–17%
OriginFranceUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose