WaimeavsStirling

Waimea and Stirling are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Waimea

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

14.5–19%

Beta acid

7–9%

Total oil

1.8–2.3 mL

New Zealand

Stirling

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

6–12%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

1.3–1.9 mL

United States

Key differences

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

When to pick Stirling

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Herbal

Only in Waimea

PineCitrusMandarinTangerine

Only in Stirling

CitusSpicyFloral

Property

PropertyWaimeaStirling
Alpha acid14.5–19%6–12%
Beta acid7–9%4–6%
Co-humulone22–24%21–28%
Total oil1.8–2.3 mL1.3–1.9 mL
Myrcene59–61%44–48%
Humulene9–10%19–23%
Caryophyllene2–3%5–7%
Farnesene4–6%11–17%
OriginNew ZealandUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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