GaiavsSpalter Select
Gaia (bittering) and Spalter Select (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Gaia
Alpha acid
12–15%
Beta acid
5–10%
Total oil
1.5–2.5 mL
Czech Republic
Spalter Select
Alpha acid
3–6.5%
Beta acid
2.5–5%
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 Spalter Select
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Spicy
Only in Gaia
Hoppy
Only in Spalter Select
Grassy
Property
| Property | Gaia | Spalter Select |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12–15% | 3–6.5% |
| Beta acid | 5–10% | 2.5–5% |
| Co-humulone | 20–29% | 21–27% |
| Total oil | 1.5–2.5 mL | 0.5–0.9 mL |
| Myrcene | 23–37% | 20–40% |
| Humulene | 2–4% | 10–22% |
| Caryophyllene | 9–12% | 4–10% |
| Farnesene | 5–7% | 15–22% |
| Origin | Czech Republic | Germany |
| Purpose | Bittering | Aroma |