McKenzievsSpalt

McKenzie and Spalt are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

McKenzie

Aroma

Alpha acid

9–11%

Beta acid

8–9%

Total oil

2–3 mL

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 McKenzie

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Spalt

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in McKenzie

GrapefruitLemonNectarineMelonPineThymeStone fruitDank

Only in Spalt

NobleEarthyHerbal

Property

PropertyMcKenzieSpalt
Alpha acid9–11%2.5–5.7%
Beta acid8–9%3–5%
Co-humulone-22–29%
Total oil2–3 mL0.5–0.9 mL
Myrcene-20–35%
Humulene-20–30%
Caryophyllene-8–13%
Farnesene-12–18%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeAromaAroma

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