GaiavsStrisselspalt
Gaia (bittering) and Strisselspalt (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
Strisselspalt
Alpha acid
1–4%
Beta acid
3–6%
Total oil
0.6–0.8 mL
France
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 Strisselspalt
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Spicy
Only in Gaia
Hoppy
Only in Strisselspalt
FloralCitrusHerbal
Property
| Property | Gaia | Strisselspalt |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12–15% | 1–4% |
| Beta acid | 5–10% | 3–6% |
| Co-humulone | 20–29% | 20–27% |
| Total oil | 1.5–2.5 mL | 0.6–0.8 mL |
| Myrcene | 23–37% | 35–52% |
| Humulene | 2–4% | 13–21% |
| Caryophyllene | 9–12% | 8–10% |
| Farnesene | 5–7% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Czech Republic | France |
| Purpose | Bittering | Aroma |
Crystal
Hersbrucker