SpaltvsStyrian Dragon

Spalt and Styrian Dragon 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

Styrian Dragon

Aroma

Alpha acid

6–11%

Beta acid

7.5–8.5%

Total oil

1.5–2.1 mL

Slovenia

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 Styrian Dragon

  • 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

Floral

Only in Spalt

NobleEarthyHerbal

Only in Styrian Dragon

CitrusGrapefruitLemonBerryRoseTropical

Property

PropertySpaltStyrian Dragon
Alpha acid2.5–5.7%6–11%
Beta acid3–5%7.5–8.5%
Co-humulone22–29%23–24%
Total oil0.5–0.9 mL1.5–2.1 mL
Myrcene20–35%58–63%
Humulene20–30%22–33%
Caryophyllene8–13%12–16%
Farnesene12–18%0–1%
OriginGermanySlovenia
PurposeAromaAroma

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