Michigan CoppervsSpalt

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

Michigan Copper

Aroma

Alpha acid

8.8–11%

Beta acid

2–3.5%

Total oil

1.15–2.7 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 Michigan Copper

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Spalt

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Michigan Copper

HibiscusTropicalBlack currantCandyResinFruity

Only in Spalt

NobleEarthyHerbal

Property

PropertyMichigan CopperSpalt
Alpha acid8.8–11%2.5–5.7%
Beta acid2–3.5%3–5%
Co-humulone32–36%22–29%
Total oil1.15–2.7 mL0.5–0.9 mL
Myrcene42–44%20–35%
Humulene17–18%20–30%
Caryophyllene7–8%8–13%
Farnesene0–1%12–18%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeAromaAroma

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