SabrovsSterling

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

Sabro

Aroma

Alpha acid

12–17%

Beta acid

4–7%

Total oil

1.8–3.5 mL

United States

Sterling

Aroma

Alpha acid

5.5–8.5%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

1–2 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Sabro

  • 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 Sterling

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Herbal

Only in Sabro

CitrusTangerineCoconutTropicalStone fruitCedarMintCream

Only in Sterling

NobleSpicyFloral

Property

PropertySabroSterling
Alpha acid12–17%5.5–8.5%
Beta acid4–7%4–6%
Co-humulone20–24%22–28%
Total oil1.8–3.5 mL1–2 mL
Myrcene50–68%35–45%
Humulene7–14%16–18%
Caryophyllene7–11%5–8%
Farnesene0–1%15–19%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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