CitravsSpalt

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

Citra

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

10–15%

Beta acid

3–4.5%

Total oil

1.5–3 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 Citra

  • 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 Spalt

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Citra

CitrusGrapefruitPeachMelonLimeGooseberryPassion fruitLychee

Only in Spalt

NobleEarthyHerbal

Property

PropertyCitraSpalt
Alpha acid10–15%2.5–5.7%
Beta acid3–4.5%3–5%
Co-humulone20–35%22–29%
Total oil1.5–3 mL0.5–0.9 mL
Myrcene60–70%20–35%
Humulene7–13%20–30%
Caryophyllene5–8%8–13%
Farnesene0–1%12–18%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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