KohatuvsSpalt

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

Kohatu

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

6–7%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

1–2 mL

New Zealand

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 Kohatu

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

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 Kohatu

Tropical

Only in Spalt

NobleEarthyHerbalFloral

Property

PropertyKohatuSpalt
Alpha acid6–7%2.5–5.7%
Beta acid4–6%3–5%
Co-humulone20–25%22–29%
Total oil1–2 mL0.5–0.9 mL
Myrcene25–30%20–35%
Humulene30–40%20–30%
Caryophyllene11–16%8–13%
Farnesene0–1%12–18%
OriginNew ZealandGermany
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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