Tillicum
Alpha acid
13.5–15.5%
Beta acid
9.5–11.5%
Total oil
-
United States
Sterling
Alpha acid
5.5–8.5%
Beta acid
4–6%
Total oil
1–2 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Tillicum
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick Sterling
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Tillicum
Stone fruitCitrus
Only in Sterling
NobleHerbalSpicyFloral
Property
| Property | Tillicum | Sterling |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 13.5–15.5% | 5.5–8.5% |
| Beta acid | 9.5–11.5% | 4–6% |
| Co-humulone | 35% | 22–28% |
| Total oil | - | 1–2 mL |
| Myrcene | 39–41% | 35–45% |
| Humulene | 13–15% | 16–18% |
| Caryophyllene | 7–8% | 5–8% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 15–19% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Aroma |