ElixirvsSpalt

Elixir and Spalt are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Elixir

Aroma

Alpha acid

4.6–7%

Beta acid

4.5–6.6%

Total oil

1.8–2.2 mL

France

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 Elixir

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Spalt

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Elixir

RoseCognacLeatherTobaccoCitrusTropicalTangerineOrangeSandalwoodSpicy

Only in Spalt

NobleEarthyHerbal

Property

PropertyElixirSpalt
Alpha acid4.6–7%2.5–5.7%
Beta acid4.5–6.6%3–5%
Co-humulone25–30%22–29%
Total oil1.8–2.2 mL0.5–0.9 mL
Myrcene65–75%20–35%
Humulene1–2%20–30%
Caryophyllene26–27%8–13%
Farnesene0–1%12–18%
OriginFranceGermany
PurposeAromaAroma

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