StirlingvsCitra

Stirling and Citra are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Stirling

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

6–12%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

1.3–1.9 mL

United States

Citra

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

10–15%

Beta acid

3–4.5%

Total oil

1.5–3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Stirling

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

When to pick Citra

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Stirling

HerbalCitusSpicy

Only in Citra

CitrusGrapefruitPeachMelonLimeGooseberryPassion fruitLychee

Property

PropertyStirlingCitra
Alpha acid6–12%10–15%
Beta acid4–6%3–4.5%
Co-humulone21–28%20–35%
Total oil1.3–1.9 mL1.5–3 mL
Myrcene44–48%60–70%
Humulene19–23%7–13%
Caryophyllene5–7%5–8%
Farnesene11–17%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

Related comparisons