Pacific SunrisevsSpalt

Pacific Sunrise (bittering) and Spalt (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Pacific Sunrise

Bittering

Alpha acid

12.5–14.5%

Beta acid

5–7%

Total oil

1.5–2.5 mL

New Zealand

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 Pacific Sunrise

  • 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
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Spalt

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Pacific Sunrise

WoodyPineLemonOrangeMangoMelon

Only in Spalt

NobleEarthyHerbal

Property

PropertyPacific SunriseSpalt
Alpha acid12.5–14.5%2.5–5.7%
Beta acid5–7%3–5%
Co-humulone27–30%22–29%
Total oil1.5–2.5 mL0.5–0.9 mL
Myrcene45–55%20–35%
Humulene20–24%20–30%
Caryophyllene6–8%8–13%
Farnesene0–1%12–18%
OriginNew ZealandGermany
PurposeBitteringAroma

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