SambavsStirling

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

Samba

Aroma

Alpha acid

8–12%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

1.5–2.5 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 Samba

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Stirling

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Samba

TropicalPineappleMangoStone fruitCandyOrange

Only in Stirling

HerbalCitusSpicyFloral

Property

PropertySambaStirling
Alpha acid8–12%6–12%
Beta acid4–6%4–6%
Co-humulone28–32%21–28%
Total oil1.5–2.5 mL1.3–1.9 mL
Myrcene-44–48%
Humulene-19–23%
Caryophyllene-5–7%
Farnesene-11–17%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaDual purpose