StirlingvsBobek

Stirling (dual purpose) and Bobek (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Stirling

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

6–12%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

1.3–1.9 mL

United States

Bobek

Bittering

Alpha acid

3.5–9.3%

Beta acid

4–6.6%

Total oil

0.7–4 mL

Slovenia

Key differences

When to pick Stirling

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Bobek

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Stirling

HerbalCitusSpicy

Only in Bobek

Pine

Property

PropertyStirlingBobek
Alpha acid6–12%3.5–9.3%
Beta acid4–6%4–6.6%
Co-humulone21–28%26–31%
Total oil1.3–1.9 mL0.7–4 mL
Myrcene44–48%30–45%
Humulene19–23%13–19%
Caryophyllene5–7%4–6%
Farnesene11–17%4–7%
OriginUnited StatesSlovenia
PurposeDual purposeBittering

Related comparisons