Sterling Hops Sterling is a versatile American dual-purpose hop, bred in 1990 and released in 1998, with a lineage that includes Saaz, Cascade, Brewer’s Gold, and Early Green. It combines the noble characteristics of Saaz with the bright citrus notes of Cascade, offering a unique blend of herbal, spicy, and floral-citrus aromas. Sterling is suitable for a wide range of beer styles, from traditional lagers to hop-forward ales. Sterling Hops Overview Flavors: Herbal, spicy, floral, citrus, earthy Primary Usage: Bittering and aroma (late kettle additions, dry hopping) Best Beer Styles: Pilsner, Lager, Belgian Ale, Kölsch, Pale Ale, IPA Similar Varieties: Saaz, Mount Hood, Santiam, Czech Saaz Background Sterling was developed to provide an American alternative to the noble Saaz hop, aiming for improved disease resistance and higher yields while retaining the desirable aroma profile. Its complex essential oil composition contributes to its distinctive character, making it a popular choice among craft and home brewers. Sterling Hop Analysis Alpha Acids 6.0 – 12.0% Beta Acids 4.0 – 6.0% Cohumulone 22 – 28% of alpha acids Total Oil Content 1.3 – 1.9 mL/100g Myrcene 44 – 48% Humulene 19 – 23% Caryophyllene 5 – 7% Farnesene 11 – 17%
