StirlingvsTarget

Stirling (dual purpose) and Target (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

Target

Bittering

Alpha acid

8.5–13.5%

Beta acid

4.3–5.7%

Total oil

1–1.4 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Stirling

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Target

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Spicy

Only in Stirling

HerbalCitusFloral

Only in Target

CitrusMarmaladeSagePepper

Property

PropertyStirlingTarget
Alpha acid6–12%8.5–13.5%
Beta acid4–6%4.3–5.7%
Co-humulone21–28%35–40%
Total oil1.3–1.9 mL1–1.4 mL
Myrcene44–48%45–55%
Humulene19–23%17–23%
Caryophyllene5–7%8–10%
Farnesene11–17%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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