AhtanumvsSpalt

Ahtanum and Spalt are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Ahtanum

Aroma

Alpha acid

3.5–6.5%

Beta acid

4–6.5%

Total oil

0.5–1.7 mL

United States

Spalt

Aroma

Alpha acid

2.5–5.7%

Beta acid

3–5%

Total oil

0.5–0.9 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick Ahtanum

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Spalt

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

EarthyFloral

Only in Ahtanum

CitrusGrapefruitGeraniumPineCedarLemon

Only in Spalt

NobleHerbal

Property

PropertyAhtanumSpalt
Alpha acid3.5–6.5%2.5–5.7%
Beta acid4–6.5%3–5%
Co-humulone30–35%22–29%
Total oil0.5–1.7 mL0.5–0.9 mL
Myrcene45–55%20–35%
Humulene15–22%20–30%
Caryophyllene9–12%8–13%
Farnesene0–1%12–18%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeAromaAroma

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