SpaltvsSimcoe

Spalt (aroma) and Simcoe (dual purpose) 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

Simcoe

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11–15%

Beta acid

3–5%

Total oil

0.8–3.2 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Spalt

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Simcoe

  • 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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Earthy

Only in Spalt

NobleHerbalFloral

Only in Simcoe

FruityGrapefruitPassion fruitPineBerryApricotBubblegumCitrus

Property

PropertySpaltSimcoe
Alpha acid2.5–5.7%11–15%
Beta acid3–5%3–5%
Co-humulone22–29%15–21%
Total oil0.5–0.9 mL0.8–3.2 mL
Myrcene20–35%40–50%
Humulene20–30%15–20%
Caryophyllene8–13%8–14%
Farnesene12–18%0–1%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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