CentennialvsSpalter Select

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

Centennial

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

7–12%

Beta acid

3.5–5.5%

Total oil

1–3 mL

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 Centennial

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • 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 Centennial

PineCitrusFloralGrapefruitTangerine

Only in Spalter Select

SpicyGrassy

Property

PropertyCentennialSpalter Select
Alpha acid7–12%3–6.5%
Beta acid3.5–5.5%2.5–5%
Co-humulone23–30%21–27%
Total oil1–3 mL0.5–0.9 mL
Myrcene55–65%20–40%
Humulene10–20%10–22%
Caryophyllene5–7%4–10%
Farnesene0–1%15–22%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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