ChallengervsSpalt
Challenger (dual purpose) and Spalt (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Challenger
Alpha acid
6.5–9%
Beta acid
3–4.5%
Total oil
1–1.7 mL
United Kingdom
Spalt
Alpha acid
2.5–5.7%
Beta acid
3–5%
Total oil
0.5–0.9 mL
Germany
Key differences
When to pick Challenger
- 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
When to pick Spalt
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Challenger
CedarGreenFruity
Only in Spalt
NobleEarthyHerbalFloral
Property
| Property | Challenger | Spalt |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 6.5–9% | 2.5–5.7% |
| Beta acid | 3–4.5% | 3–5% |
| Co-humulone | 20–25% | 22–29% |
| Total oil | 1–1.7 mL | 0.5–0.9 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–42% | 20–35% |
| Humulene | 24–26% | 20–30% |
| Caryophyllene | 9–10% | 8–13% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 12–18% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | Germany |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |
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