SpaltvsSabro

Spalt and Sabro are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Spalt

Aroma

Alpha acid

2.5–5.7%

Beta acid

3–5%

Total oil

0.5–0.9 mL

Germany

Sabro

Aroma

Alpha acid

12–17%

Beta acid

4–7%

Total oil

1.8–3.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Spalt

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

When to pick Sabro

  • 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
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Herbal

Only in Spalt

NobleEarthyFloral

Only in Sabro

CitrusTangerineCoconutTropicalStone fruitCedarMintCream

Property

PropertySpaltSabro
Alpha acid2.5–5.7%12–17%
Beta acid3–5%4–7%
Co-humulone22–29%20–24%
Total oil0.5–0.9 mL1.8–3.5 mL
Myrcene20–35%50–68%
Humulene20–30%7–14%
Caryophyllene8–13%7–11%
Farnesene12–18%0–1%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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