Wai-itivsSterling

Wai-iti and Sterling are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Wai-iti

Aroma

Alpha acid

2.5–3.5%

Beta acid

4.5–5.5%

Total oil

1.4–1.8 mL

New Zealand

Sterling

Aroma

Alpha acid

5.5–8.5%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

1–2 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Wai-iti

  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Sterling

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Spicy

Only in Wai-iti

Stone fruitPeachApricotCitrusLimeMandarin

Only in Sterling

NobleHerbalFloral

Property

PropertyWai-itiSterling
Alpha acid2.5–3.5%5.5–8.5%
Beta acid4.5–5.5%4–6%
Co-humulone22–24%22–28%
Total oil1.4–1.8 mL1–2 mL
Myrcene2–4%35–45%
Humulene27–29%16–18%
Caryophyllene8–10%5–8%
Farnesene12–14%15–19%
OriginNew ZealandUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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