SterlingvsAhtanum

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

Sterling

Aroma

Alpha acid

5.5–8.5%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

1–2 mL

United States

Ahtanum

Aroma

Alpha acid

3.5–6.5%

Beta acid

4–6.5%

Total oil

0.5–1.7 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Sterling

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma

When to pick Ahtanum

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Sterling

NobleHerbalSpicy

Only in Ahtanum

CitrusGrapefruitGeraniumPineEarthyCedarLemon

Property

PropertySterlingAhtanum
Alpha acid5.5–8.5%3.5–6.5%
Beta acid4–6%4–6.5%
Co-humulone22–28%30–35%
Total oil1–2 mL0.5–1.7 mL
Myrcene35–45%45–55%
Humulene16–18%15–22%
Caryophyllene5–8%9–12%
Farnesene15–19%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

Related comparisons