NuggetvsStirling

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

Nugget

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9.5–16%

Beta acid

3–5.8%

Total oil

0.9–3.3 mL

United States

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 Nugget

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Stirling

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

HerbalHerbal

Only in Nugget

CitrusGingerPineappleGeraniumLycheeEarthyCoconut

Only in Stirling

CitusSpicyFloral

Property

PropertyNuggetStirling
Alpha acid9.5–16%6–12%
Beta acid3–5.8%4–6%
Co-humulone22–30%21–28%
Total oil0.9–3.3 mL1.3–1.9 mL
Myrcene48–59%44–48%
Humulene12–22%19–23%
Caryophyllene7–10%5–7%
Farnesene0–1%11–17%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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