NectaronvsSterling

Nectaron and Sterling are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Nectaron

Aroma

Alpha acid

9.5–12%

Beta acid

4.5–5%

Total oil

1–1.7 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 Nectaron

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • 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

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Nectaron

TropicalCitrusPineapplePassion fruitPeachGrapefruitNectar

Only in Sterling

NobleHerbalSpicyFloral

Property

PropertyNectaronSterling
Alpha acid9.5–12%5.5–8.5%
Beta acid4.5–5%4–6%
Co-humulone26–28%22–28%
Total oil1–1.7 mL1–2 mL
Myrcene59–65%35–45%
Humulene10–20%16–18%
Caryophyllene4–5%5–8%
Farnesene0–1%15–19%
OriginNew ZealandUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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