Southern CrossvsStirling
Southern Cross and Stirling are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Southern Cross
Alpha acid
11–14%
Beta acid
5–7%
Total oil
1.2–2 mL
New Zealand
Stirling
Alpha acid
6–12%
Beta acid
4–6%
Total oil
1.3–1.9 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Southern Cross
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- 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
Spicy
Only in Southern Cross
LemonLimePineCitrusTropicalZest
Only in Stirling
HerbalCitusFloral
Property
| Property | Southern Cross | Stirling |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 11–14% | 6–12% |
| Beta acid | 5–7% | 4–6% |
| Co-humulone | 25–28% | 21–28% |
| Total oil | 1.2–2 mL | 1.3–1.9 mL |
| Myrcene | 31–55% | 44–48% |
| Humulene | 13–21% | 19–23% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–8% | 5–7% |
| Farnesene | 6–8% | 11–17% |
| Origin | New Zealand | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |
Sorachi Ace