SterlingvsStyrian Golding

Sterling and Styrian Golding 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

Styrian Golding

Aroma

Alpha acid

3.5–6.5%

Beta acid

2.5–3.5%

Total oil

0.5–1 mL

Slovenia

Key differences

When to pick Sterling

  • 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

When to pick Styrian Golding

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

NobleSpicy

Only in Sterling

HerbalFloral

Only in Styrian Golding

EarthyResinSweet

Property

PropertySterlingStyrian Golding
Alpha acid5.5–8.5%3.5–6.5%
Beta acid4–6%2.5–3.5%
Co-humulone22–28%25–30%
Total oil1–2 mL0.5–1 mL
Myrcene35–45%27–33%
Humulene16–18%34–38%
Caryophyllene5–8%9–11%
Farnesene15–19%2–5%
OriginUnited StatesSlovenia
PurposeAromaAroma

Related comparisons