HydravsSpalter Select
Hydra (dual purpose) and Spalter Select (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Hydra
Alpha acid
10.5–13.7%
Beta acid
6.4–7.9%
Total oil
-
United States
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 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 Spalter Select
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Hydra
CitrusTangerineMandarinZestResinLimeBerryPeachWatermelonRoseApricotTropical
Only in Spalter Select
SpicyGrassy
Property
| Property | Hydra | Spalter Select |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 10.5–13.7% | 3–6.5% |
| Beta acid | 6.4–7.9% | 2.5–5% |
| Co-humulone | 27–28% | 21–27% |
| Total oil | - | 0.5–0.9 mL |
| Myrcene | 54–55% | 20–40% |
| Humulene | 11–12% | 10–22% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–9% | 4–10% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 15–22% |
| Origin | United States | Germany |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |