SterlingvsStyrian Cardinal
Sterling and Styrian Cardinal 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
Styrian Cardinal
Alpha acid
8–15%
Beta acid
3.2–4.6%
Total oil
3–4 mL
Slovenia
Key differences
When to pick Sterling
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
When to pick Styrian Cardinal
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Sterling
NobleHerbalSpicyFloral
Only in Styrian Cardinal
CitrusGooseberryPineappleOrangeLimeJasmineGuava
Property
| Property | Sterling | Styrian Cardinal |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5.5–8.5% | 8–15% |
| Beta acid | 4–6% | 3.2–4.6% |
| Co-humulone | 22–28% | 31–37% |
| Total oil | 1–2 mL | 3–4 mL |
| Myrcene | 35–45% | 40–50% |
| Humulene | 16–18% | 15–22% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–8% | 8–11% |
| Farnesene | 15–19% | 5–7% |
| Origin | United States | Slovenia |
| Purpose | Aroma | Aroma |