SterlingvsHallertau Tradition

Sterling and Hallertau Tradition 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

Hallertau Tradition

Aroma

Alpha acid

4.6–7%

Beta acid

3–6%

Total oil

0.5–1.9 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick Sterling

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

When to pick Hallertau Tradition

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Noble

Only in Sterling

HerbalSpicyFloral

Only in Hallertau Tradition

EarthyGrassyNectarFruity

Property

PropertySterlingHallertau Tradition
Alpha acid5.5–8.5%4.6–7%
Beta acid4–6%3–6%
Co-humulone22–28%23–30%
Total oil1–2 mL0.5–1.9 mL
Myrcene35–45%17–32%
Humulene16–18%35–50%
Caryophyllene5–8%10–15%
Farnesene15–19%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeAromaAroma

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