BergamotvsSpalter Select

Bergamot (dual purpose) and Spalter Select (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Bergamot

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8–10.7%

Beta acid

6–8.9%

Total oil

-

United States

Spalter Select

Aroma

Alpha acid

3–6.5%

Beta acid

2.5–5%

Total oil

0.5–0.9 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick Bergamot

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • 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 Bergamot

OrangeMangoDankCherryZestLemongrassLimeJuniperTropicalPepperFloral

Only in Spalter Select

SpicyGrassy

Property

PropertyBergamotSpalter Select
Alpha acid8–10.7%3–6.5%
Beta acid6–8.9%2.5–5%
Co-humulone39–40%21–27%
Total oil-0.5–0.9 mL
Myrcene44–45%20–40%
Humulene14–15%10–22%
Caryophyllene9–10%4–10%
Farnesene0–1%15–22%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeDual purposeAroma

Related comparisons