Petit BlancvsStirling

Petit Blanc (aroma) and Stirling (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Petit Blanc

Aroma

Alpha acid

2–4%

Beta acid

5–6%

Total oil

0.5–0.8 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 Petit Blanc

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Stirling

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Petit Blanc

CherryMelonPapayaGreenLilac

Only in Stirling

HerbalCitusSpicyFloral

Property

PropertyPetit BlancStirling
Alpha acid2–4%6–12%
Beta acid5–6%4–6%
Co-humulone15%21–28%
Total oil0.5–0.8 mL1.3–1.9 mL
Myrcene-44–48%
Humulene-19–23%
Caryophyllene-5–7%
Farnesene-11–17%
OriginFranceUnited States
PurposeAromaDual purpose