Mount RainiervsSpalt

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

Mount Rainier

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5–9.4%

Beta acid

5–9.2%

Total oil

0.2–3.9 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 Mount Rainier

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

When to pick Spalt

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

NobleFloral

Only in Mount Rainier

LicoriceCitrusSpicy

Only in Spalt

EarthyHerbal

Property

PropertyMount RainierSpalt
Alpha acid5–9.4%2.5–5.7%
Beta acid5–9.2%3–5%
Co-humulone21–34%22–29%
Total oil0.2–3.9 mL0.5–0.9 mL
Myrcene58–59%20–35%
Humulene17–18%20–30%
Caryophyllene7–8%8–13%
Farnesene0–1%12–18%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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