StirlingvsWaimea

Stirling and Waimea 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

Waimea

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

14.5–19%

Beta acid

7–9%

Total oil

1.8–2.3 mL

New Zealand

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 Waimea

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Herbal

Only in Stirling

CitusSpicyFloral

Only in Waimea

PineCitrusMandarinTangerine

Property

PropertyStirlingWaimea
Alpha acid6–12%14.5–19%
Beta acid4–6%7–9%
Co-humulone21–28%22–24%
Total oil1.3–1.9 mL1.8–2.3 mL
Myrcene44–48%59–61%
Humulene19–23%9–10%
Caryophyllene5–7%2–3%
Farnesene11–17%4–6%
OriginUnited StatesNew Zealand
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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