SpaltvsSummer

Spalt and Summer 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

Summer

Aroma

Alpha acid

5.6–6.4%

Beta acid

4.8–6.1%

Total oil

1.4–2 mL

Australia

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 Summer

  • 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

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Spalt

NobleEarthyHerbalFloral

Only in Summer

ApricotMelonGrassyCitrusStone fruitPassion fruitPeach

Property

PropertySpaltSummer
Alpha acid2.5–5.7%5.6–6.4%
Beta acid3–5%4.8–6.1%
Co-humulone22–29%20–25%
Total oil0.5–0.9 mL1.4–2 mL
Myrcene20–35%29–38%
Humulene20–30%28–50%
Caryophyllene8–13%8–11%
Farnesene12–18%0–1%
OriginGermanyAustralia
PurposeAromaAroma

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