StirlingvsVic Secret

Stirling and Vic Secret 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

Vic Secret

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

14–21.8%

Beta acid

5.7–8.7%

Total oil

1.9–2.8 mL

Australia

Key differences

When to pick Stirling

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

When to pick Vic Secret

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Herbal

Only in Stirling

CitusSpicyFloral

Only in Vic Secret

TropicalPineapplePinePassion fruitEarthy

Property

PropertyStirlingVic Secret
Alpha acid6–12%14–21.8%
Beta acid4–6%5.7–8.7%
Co-humulone21–28%51–57%
Total oil1.3–1.9 mL1.9–2.8 mL
Myrcene44–48%31–46%
Humulene19–23%9–21%
Caryophyllene5–7%9–15%
Farnesene11–17%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesAustralia
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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