HerkulesvsSpalter Select
Herkules (bittering) and Spalter Select (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Herkules
Alpha acid
12–17%
Beta acid
4–5.5%
Total oil
1.4–2.4 mL
Germany
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 Herkules
- 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
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick Spalter Select
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Herkules
CitrusMelon
Only in Spalter Select
SpicyGrassy
Property
| Property | Herkules | Spalter Select |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12–17% | 3–6.5% |
| Beta acid | 4–5.5% | 2.5–5% |
| Co-humulone | 32–38% | 21–27% |
| Total oil | 1.4–2.4 mL | 0.5–0.9 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–50% | 20–40% |
| Humulene | 30–45% | 10–22% |
| Caryophyllene | 7–12% | 4–10% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 15–22% |
| Origin | Germany | Germany |
| Purpose | Bittering | Aroma |
Warrior