Mystic
Alpha acid
4–7%
Beta acid
2–4%
Total oil
0.5–1.5 mL
UK
Sterling
Alpha acid
5.5–8.5%
Beta acid
4–6%
Total oil
1–2 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Mystic
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
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Mystic
Black currantCitrusPassion fruitWoody
Only in Sterling
NobleHerbalSpicyFloral
Property
| Property | Mystic | Sterling |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 4–7% | 5.5–8.5% |
| Beta acid | 2–4% | 4–6% |
| Co-humulone | 30–40% | 22–28% |
| Total oil | 0.5–1.5 mL | 1–2 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–40% | 35–45% |
| Humulene | 30–40% | 16–18% |
| Caryophyllene | 0% | 5–8% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 15–19% |
| Origin | UK | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Aroma |
Barbe Rouge
Huell Melon
Styrian Dragon