HerkulesvsSpalt

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

Herkules

Bittering

Alpha acid

12–17%

Beta acid

4–5.5%

Total oil

1.4–2.4 mL

Germany

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 Herkules

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • 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 Herkules

CitrusMelon

Only in Spalt

NobleEarthyHerbalFloral

Property

PropertyHerkulesSpalt
Alpha acid12–17%2.5–5.7%
Beta acid4–5.5%3–5%
Co-humulone32–38%22–29%
Total oil1.4–2.4 mL0.5–0.9 mL
Myrcene30–50%20–35%
Humulene30–45%20–30%
Caryophyllene7–12%8–13%
Farnesene0–1%12–18%
OriginGermanyGermany
PurposeBitteringAroma

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