HydravsSpalt

Hydra (dual purpose) and Spalt (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Hydra

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

10.5–13.7%

Beta acid

6.4–7.9%

Total oil

-

United States

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 Hydra

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • 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 Spalt

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Hydra

CitrusTangerineMandarinZestResinLimeBerryPeachWatermelonRoseApricotTropical

Only in Spalt

NobleEarthyHerbalFloral

Property

PropertyHydraSpalt
Alpha acid10.5–13.7%2.5–5.7%
Beta acid6.4–7.9%3–5%
Co-humulone27–28%22–29%
Total oil-0.5–0.9 mL
Myrcene54–55%20–35%
Humulene11–12%20–30%
Caryophyllene8–9%8–13%
Farnesene0–1%12–18%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeDual purposeAroma

Related comparisons