NuggetvsSpalt

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

Nugget

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9.5–16%

Beta acid

3–5.8%

Total oil

0.9–3.3 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 Nugget

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

When to pick Spalt

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

HerbalHerbalEarthy

Only in Nugget

CitrusGingerPineappleGeraniumLycheeCoconut

Only in Spalt

NobleFloral

Property

PropertyNuggetSpalt
Alpha acid9.5–16%2.5–5.7%
Beta acid3–5.8%3–5%
Co-humulone22–30%22–29%
Total oil0.9–3.3 mL0.5–0.9 mL
Myrcene48–59%20–35%
Humulene12–22%20–30%
Caryophyllene7–10%8–13%
Farnesene0–1%12–18%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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