SterlingvsNelson Sauvin

Sterling and Nelson Sauvin 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

Nelson Sauvin

Aroma

Alpha acid

10–13%

Beta acid

5–8%

Total oil

0.8–1.5 mL

New Zealand

Key differences

When to pick Sterling

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

When to pick Nelson Sauvin

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Sterling

NobleHerbalSpicyFloral

Only in Nelson Sauvin

WhiteFruityGooseberryGrapesSauvignon

Property

PropertySterlingNelson Sauvin
Alpha acid5.5–8.5%10–13%
Beta acid4–6%5–8%
Co-humulone22–28%20–25%
Total oil1–2 mL0.8–1.5 mL
Myrcene35–45%20–45%
Humulene16–18%25–37%
Caryophyllene5–8%6–11%
Farnesene15–19%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesNew Zealand
PurposeAromaAroma

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