SpaltvsSummit

Spalt (aroma) and Summit (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

Summit

Bittering

Alpha acid

15–17.5%

Beta acid

4–6.5%

Total oil

1.5–3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Spalt

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Summit

  • 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
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Earthy

Only in Spalt

NobleHerbalFloral

Only in Summit

Black currantAniseIncenseOrangeGrapefruitTangerineCitrusOnionGarlicDankCannabis

Property

PropertySpaltSummit
Alpha acid2.5–5.7%15–17.5%
Beta acid3–5%4–6.5%
Co-humulone22–29%26–33%
Total oil0.5–0.9 mL1.5–3 mL
Myrcene20–35%30–40%
Humulene20–30%18–22%
Caryophyllene8–13%12–16%
Farnesene12–18%0–1%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeAromaBittering

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