Nelson SauvinvsSterling
Nelson Sauvin and Sterling are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Nelson Sauvin
Alpha acid
10–13%
Beta acid
5–8%
Total oil
0.8–1.5 mL
New Zealand
Sterling
Alpha acid
5.5–8.5%
Beta acid
4–6%
Total oil
1–2 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Nelson Sauvin
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
When to pick Sterling
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Nelson Sauvin
WhiteFruityGooseberryGrapesSauvignon
Only in Sterling
NobleHerbalSpicyFloral
Property
| Property | Nelson Sauvin | Sterling |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 10–13% | 5.5–8.5% |
| Beta acid | 5–8% | 4–6% |
| Co-humulone | 20–25% | 22–28% |
| Total oil | 0.8–1.5 mL | 1–2 mL |
| Myrcene | 20–45% | 35–45% |
| Humulene | 25–37% | 16–18% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–11% | 5–8% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 15–19% |
| Origin | New Zealand | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Aroma |