Styrian CardinalvsStirling
Styrian Cardinal (aroma) and Stirling (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Styrian Cardinal
Alpha acid
8–15%
Beta acid
3.2–4.6%
Total oil
3–4 mL
Slovenia
Stirling
Alpha acid
6–12%
Beta acid
4–6%
Total oil
1.3–1.9 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Styrian Cardinal
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Stirling
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Styrian Cardinal
CitrusGooseberryPineappleOrangeLimeJasmineGuava
Only in Stirling
HerbalCitusSpicyFloral
Property
| Property | Styrian Cardinal | Stirling |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 8–15% | 6–12% |
| Beta acid | 3.2–4.6% | 4–6% |
| Co-humulone | 31–37% | 21–28% |
| Total oil | 3–4 mL | 1.3–1.9 mL |
| Myrcene | 40–50% | 44–48% |
| Humulene | 15–22% | 19–23% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–11% | 5–7% |
| Farnesene | 5–7% | 11–17% |
| Origin | Slovenia | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Dual purpose |