Spalter SelectvsSterling
Spalter Select and Sterling are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Spalter Select
Alpha acid
3–6.5%
Beta acid
2.5–5%
Total oil
0.5–0.9 mL
Germany
Sterling
Alpha acid
5.5–8.5%
Beta acid
4–6%
Total oil
1–2 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Spalter Select
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
When to pick Sterling
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Spicy
Only in Spalter Select
Grassy
Only in Sterling
NobleHerbalFloral
Property
| Property | Spalter Select | Sterling |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 3–6.5% | 5.5–8.5% |
| Beta acid | 2.5–5% | 4–6% |
| Co-humulone | 21–27% | 22–28% |
| Total oil | 0.5–0.9 mL | 1–2 mL |
| Myrcene | 20–40% | 35–45% |
| Humulene | 10–22% | 16–18% |
| Caryophyllene | 4–10% | 5–8% |
| Farnesene | 15–22% | 15–19% |
| Origin | Germany | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Aroma |