Emerald SpirevsBelma

Emerald Spire and Belma are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Emerald Spire

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8.6–13%

Beta acid

3.5–4.5%

Total oil

-

United States

Belma

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8.5–12.1%

Beta acid

4–8%

Total oil

1–2.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Emerald Spire

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

When to pick Belma

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Melon

Only in Emerald Spire

PeachFruityWhiteGrapesWatermelonBubbleHoneydew

Only in Belma

OrangeStrawberryPineappleGrapefruitBerryCitrusTropical

Property

PropertyEmerald SpireBelma
Alpha acid8.6–13%8.5–12.1%
Beta acid3.5–4.5%4–8%
Co-humulone38–39%-
Total oil-1–2.5 mL
Myrcene36–37%65–68%
Humulene10–11%-
Caryophyllene7–8%-
Farnesene0–1%-
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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