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
Alpha acid
5.5–8.5%
Beta acid
4–6%
Total oil
1–2 mL
United States
Nelson Sauvin
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
| Property | Sterling | Nelson Sauvin |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5.5–8.5% | 10–13% |
| Beta acid | 4–6% | 5–8% |
| Co-humulone | 22–28% | 20–25% |
| Total oil | 1–2 mL | 0.8–1.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 35–45% | 20–45% |
| Humulene | 16–18% | 25–37% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–8% | 6–11% |
| Farnesene | 15–19% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | New Zealand |
| Purpose | Aroma | Aroma |