Emerald SpirevsSummit

Emerald Spire (dual purpose) and Summit (bittering) 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

Summit

Bittering

Alpha acid

15–17.5%

Beta acid

4–6.5%

Total oil

1.5–3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Emerald Spire

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Summit

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Emerald Spire

PeachFruityWhiteGrapesWatermelonBubbleMelonHoneydew

Only in Summit

Black currantAniseIncenseOrangeGrapefruitTangerineEarthyCitrusOnionGarlicDankCannabis

Property

PropertyEmerald SpireSummit
Alpha acid8.6–13%15–17.5%
Beta acid3.5–4.5%4–6.5%
Co-humulone38–39%26–33%
Total oil-1.5–3 mL
Myrcene36–37%30–40%
Humulene10–11%18–22%
Caryophyllene7–8%12–16%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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