Emerald SpirevsSpalt

Emerald Spire (dual purpose) and Spalt (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

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 Emerald Spire

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • 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

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Emerald Spire

PeachFruityWhiteGrapesWatermelonBubbleMelonHoneydew

Only in Spalt

NobleEarthyHerbalFloral

Property

PropertyEmerald SpireSpalt
Alpha acid8.6–13%2.5–5.7%
Beta acid3.5–4.5%3–5%
Co-humulone38–39%22–29%
Total oil-0.5–0.9 mL
Myrcene36–37%20–35%
Humulene10–11%20–30%
Caryophyllene7–8%8–13%
Farnesene0–1%12–18%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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