HBC 586vsSpalter Select

HBC 586 (dual purpose) and Spalter Select (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

HBC 586

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

18–22%

Beta acid

11–14%

Total oil

2.5–4.5 mL

United States

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 HBC 586

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • 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 HBC 586

MangoLycheeCitrusHerbalGuava

Only in Spalter Select

Grassy

Property

PropertyHBC 586Spalter Select
Alpha acid18–22%3–6.5%
Beta acid11–14%2.5–5%
Co-humulone35–40%21–27%
Total oil2.5–4.5 mL0.5–0.9 mL
Myrcene55–65%20–40%
Humulene8–12%10–22%
Caryophyllene8–10%4–10%
Farnesene0–1%15–22%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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