StirlingvsEroica

Stirling (dual purpose) and Eroica (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

Eroica

Bittering

Alpha acid

7.3–14.9%

Beta acid

3–5.3%

Total oil

0.8–1.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Stirling

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Eroica

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Stirling

HerbalCitusSpicyFloral

Only in Eroica

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Property

PropertyStirlingEroica
Alpha acid6–12%7.3–14.9%
Beta acid4–6%3–5.3%
Co-humulone21–28%40%
Total oil1.3–1.9 mL0.8–1.3 mL
Myrcene44–48%55–65%
Humulene19–23%0–1%
Caryophyllene5–7%7–13%
Farnesene11–17%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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