GaiavsSpalt

Gaia (bittering) and Spalt (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Gaia

Bittering

Alpha acid

12–15%

Beta acid

5–10%

Total oil

1.5–2.5 mL

Czech Republic

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 Gaia

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Spalt

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Gaia

HoppySpicy

Only in Spalt

NobleEarthyHerbalFloral

Property

PropertyGaiaSpalt
Alpha acid12–15%2.5–5.7%
Beta acid5–10%3–5%
Co-humulone20–29%22–29%
Total oil1.5–2.5 mL0.5–0.9 mL
Myrcene23–37%20–35%
Humulene2–4%20–30%
Caryophyllene9–12%8–13%
Farnesene5–7%12–18%
OriginCzech RepublicGermany
PurposeBitteringAroma

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