DefendervsSpalter Select
Defender and Spalter Select are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Defender
Alpha acid
3.3–6%
Beta acid
1.1–2.5%
Total oil
0.28–0.98 mL
United Kingdom
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 Defender
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
When to pick Spalter Select
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Defender
Pleasant
Only in Spalter Select
SpicyGrassy
Property
| Property | Defender | Spalter Select |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 3.3–6% | 3–6.5% |
| Beta acid | 1.1–2.5% | 2.5–5% |
| Co-humulone | 23–32% | 21–27% |
| Total oil | 0.28–0.98 mL | 0.5–0.9 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–32% | 20–40% |
| Humulene | 34–36% | 10–22% |
| Caryophyllene | 13–15% | 4–10% |
| Farnesene | 3–4% | 15–22% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | Germany |
| Purpose | Aroma | Aroma |