BelmavsSpalter Select
Belma (dual purpose) and Spalter Select (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Belma
Alpha acid
8.5–12.1%
Beta acid
4–8%
Total oil
1–2.5 mL
United States
Spalter Select
Alpha acid
3–6.5%
Beta acid
2.5–5%
Total oil
0.5–0.9 mL
Germany
Key differences
When to pick Belma
- 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
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Spalter Select
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Belma
OrangeMelonStrawberryPineappleGrapefruitBerryCitrusTropical
Only in Spalter Select
SpicyGrassy
Property
| Property | Belma | Spalter Select |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 8.5–12.1% | 3–6.5% |
| Beta acid | 4–8% | 2.5–5% |
| Co-humulone | - | 21–27% |
| Total oil | 1–2.5 mL | 0.5–0.9 mL |
| Myrcene | 65–68% | 20–40% |
| Humulene | - | 10–22% |
| Caryophyllene | - | 4–10% |
| Farnesene | - | 15–22% |
| Origin | United States | Germany |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |
Pacific Gem