SterlingvsStyrian Dragon
Sterling and Styrian Dragon 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 Dragon
Alpha acid
6–11%
Beta acid
7.5–8.5%
Total oil
1.5–2.1 mL
Slovenia
Key differences
When to pick Sterling
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
When to pick Styrian Dragon
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Floral
Only in Sterling
NobleHerbalSpicy
Only in Styrian Dragon
CitrusGrapefruitLemonBerryRoseTropical
Property
| Property | Sterling | Styrian Dragon |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5.5–8.5% | 6–11% |
| Beta acid | 4–6% | 7.5–8.5% |
| Co-humulone | 22–28% | 23–24% |
| Total oil | 1–2 mL | 1.5–2.1 mL |
| Myrcene | 35–45% | 58–63% |
| Humulene | 16–18% | 22–33% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–8% | 12–16% |
| Farnesene | 15–19% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | Slovenia |
| Purpose | Aroma | Aroma |