Sterling
Alpha acid
5.5–8.5%
Beta acid
4–6%
Total oil
1–2 mL
United States
Belma
Alpha acid
8.5–12.1%
Beta acid
4–8%
Total oil
1–2.5 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Sterling
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
When to pick Belma
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Sterling
NobleHerbalSpicyFloral
Only in Belma
OrangeMelonStrawberryPineappleGrapefruitBerryCitrusTropical
Property
| Property | Sterling | Belma |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5.5–8.5% | 8.5–12.1% |
| Beta acid | 4–6% | 4–8% |
| Co-humulone | 22–28% | - |
| Total oil | 1–2 mL | 1–2.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 35–45% | 65–68% |
| Humulene | 16–18% | - |
| Caryophyllene | 5–8% | - |
| Farnesene | 15–19% | - |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Dual purpose |