SterlingvsWai-iti

Sterling and Wai-iti 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

Wai-iti

Aroma

Alpha acid

2.5–3.5%

Beta acid

4.5–5.5%

Total oil

1.4–1.8 mL

New Zealand

Key differences

When to pick Sterling

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

When to pick Wai-iti

  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Spicy

Only in Sterling

NobleHerbalFloral

Only in Wai-iti

Stone fruitPeachApricotCitrusLimeMandarin

Property

PropertySterlingWai-iti
Alpha acid5.5–8.5%2.5–3.5%
Beta acid4–6%4.5–5.5%
Co-humulone22–28%22–24%
Total oil1–2 mL1.4–1.8 mL
Myrcene35–45%2–4%
Humulene16–18%27–29%
Caryophyllene5–8%8–10%
Farnesene15–19%12–14%
OriginUnited StatesNew Zealand
PurposeAromaAroma

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