Mount RainiervsSpalter Select

Mount Rainier (dual purpose) and Spalter Select (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

Spalter Select

Aroma

Alpha acid

3–6.5%

Beta acid

2.5–5%

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
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Spalter Select

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Spicy

Only in Mount Rainier

NobleLicoriceFloralCitrus

Only in Spalter Select

Grassy

Property

PropertyMount RainierSpalter Select
Alpha acid5–9.4%3–6.5%
Beta acid5–9.2%2.5–5%
Co-humulone21–34%21–27%
Total oil0.2–3.9 mL0.5–0.9 mL
Myrcene58–59%20–40%
Humulene17–18%10–22%
Caryophyllene7–8%4–10%
Farnesene0–1%15–22%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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