First GoldvsSpalter Select

First Gold (dual purpose) and Spalter Select (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

First Gold

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5.6–10%

Beta acid

2.3–4.1%

Total oil

0.7–1.5 mL

United Kingdom

Spalter Select

Aroma

Alpha acid

3–6.5%

Beta acid

2.5–5%

Total oil

0.5–0.9 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick First Gold

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

When to pick Spalter Select

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Spicy

Only in First Gold

TangerineApricotMagnoliaRedberryHerbalOrangeHerbalFloral

Only in Spalter Select

Grassy

Property

PropertyFirst GoldSpalter Select
Alpha acid5.6–10%3–6.5%
Beta acid2.3–4.1%2.5–5%
Co-humulone29–35%21–27%
Total oil0.7–1.5 mL0.5–0.9 mL
Myrcene24–28%20–40%
Humulene20–24%10–22%
Caryophyllene6–7%4–10%
Farnesene2–4%15–22%
OriginUnited KingdomGermany
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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