PioneervsStirling

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

Pioneer

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8–10.5%

Beta acid

3.5–4.5%

Total oil

1–1.8 mL

United Kingdom

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 Pioneer

  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Stirling

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Herbal

Only in Pioneer

CedarGrapefruitLemonGrapefruitCrispClean

Only in Stirling

CitusSpicyFloral

Property

PropertyPioneerStirling
Alpha acid8–10.5%6–12%
Beta acid3.5–4.5%4–6%
Co-humulone36–40%21–28%
Total oil1–1.8 mL1.3–1.9 mL
Myrcene34–36%44–48%
Humulene18–25%19–23%
Caryophyllene-5–7%
Farnesene0–1%11–17%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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