SpaltvsLiberty

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

Spalt

Aroma

Alpha acid

2.5–5.7%

Beta acid

3–5%

Total oil

0.5–0.9 mL

Germany

Liberty

Bittering

Alpha acid

3–6.5%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

0.6–1.8 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Spalt

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Liberty

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

NobleHerbalFloral

Only in Spalt

Earthy

Only in Liberty

SpicyDelicateCitrusLemon

Property

PropertySpaltLiberty
Alpha acid2.5–5.7%3–6.5%
Beta acid3–5%3–4%
Co-humulone22–29%22–30%
Total oil0.5–0.9 mL0.6–1.8 mL
Myrcene20–35%15–25%
Humulene20–30%35–45%
Caryophyllene8–13%10–15%
Farnesene12–18%0–1%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeAromaBittering

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