SterlingvsZamba Blend
Sterling and Zamba Blend 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
Zamba Blend
Alpha acid
8–12%
Beta acid
4–6%
Total oil
1.5–2.5 mL
United States
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 Zamba Blend
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Sterling
NobleHerbalSpicyFloral
Only in Zamba Blend
MangoStone fruitOrangeTangerinePineapple
Property
| Property | Sterling | Zamba Blend |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5.5–8.5% | 8–12% |
| Beta acid | 4–6% | 4–6% |
| Co-humulone | 22–28% | 28–32% |
| Total oil | 1–2 mL | 1.5–2.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 35–45% | 60–70% |
| Humulene | 16–18% | 9–13% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–8% | 5–8% |
| Farnesene | 15–19% | 1–4% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Aroma |