McKenzievsSpalter Select
McKenzie and Spalter Select are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
McKenzie
Alpha acid
9–11%
Beta acid
8–9%
Total oil
2–3 mL
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 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 Spalter Select
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in McKenzie
GrapefruitLemonNectarineMelonPineThymeStone fruitDankFloral
Only in Spalter Select
SpicyGrassy
Property
| Property | McKenzie | Spalter Select |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 9–11% | 3–6.5% |
| Beta acid | 8–9% | 2.5–5% |
| Co-humulone | - | 21–27% |
| Total oil | 2–3 mL | 0.5–0.9 mL |
| Myrcene | - | 20–40% |
| Humulene | - | 10–22% |
| Caryophyllene | - | 4–10% |
| Farnesene | - | 15–22% |
| Origin | United States | Germany |
| Purpose | Aroma | Aroma |