Sterling
Alpha acid
5.5–8.5%
Beta acid
4–6%
Total oil
1–2 mL
United States
Amarillo
Alpha acid
7–11%
Beta acid
5.5–8%
Total oil
1–2.3 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Sterling
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
When to pick Amarillo
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- 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
SpicyFloral
Only in Sterling
NobleHerbal
Only in Amarillo
TropicalCitrusOrangeLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank
Property
| Property | Sterling | Amarillo |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5.5–8.5% | 7–11% |
| Beta acid | 4–6% | 5.5–8% |
| Co-humulone | 22–28% | 21–24% |
| Total oil | 1–2 mL | 1–2.3 mL |
| Myrcene | 35–45% | 40–70% |
| Humulene | 16–18% | 19–24% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–8% | 7–10% |
| Farnesene | 15–19% | 6–9% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Aroma |