Emerald SpirevsMount Hood

Emerald Spire (dual purpose) and Mount Hood (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Emerald Spire

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8.6–13%

Beta acid

3.5–4.5%

Total oil

-

United States

Mount Hood

Aroma

Alpha acid

3.9–8%

Beta acid

5–8%

Total oil

1.2–1.7 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Emerald Spire

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Mount Hood

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Emerald Spire

PeachFruityWhiteGrapesWatermelonBubbleMelonHoneydew

Only in Mount Hood

NobleHerbalPungentSpicy

Property

PropertyEmerald SpireMount Hood
Alpha acid8.6–13%3.9–8%
Beta acid3.5–4.5%5–8%
Co-humulone38–39%21–23%
Total oil-1.2–1.7 mL
Myrcene36–37%30–40%
Humulene10–11%12–38%
Caryophyllene7–8%7–16%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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