StirlingvsCTZ

Stirling and CTZ 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

CTZ

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

14.5–17%

Beta acid

4.5–5.5%

Total oil

2.5–4.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Stirling

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

When to pick CTZ

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Stirling

HerbalCitusSpicyFloral

Only in CTZ

Black currantLicoriceCurryCitrusCannabisDank

Property

PropertyStirlingCTZ
Alpha acid6–12%14.5–17%
Beta acid4–6%4.5–5.5%
Co-humulone21–28%28–35%
Total oil1.3–1.9 mL2.5–4.5 mL
Myrcene44–48%45–55%
Humulene19–23%9–14%
Caryophyllene5–7%6–10%
Farnesene11–17%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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