SpaltvsSylva

Spalt and Sylva 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

Sylva

Aroma

Alpha acid

4–7.3%

Beta acid

3–7%

Total oil

0.9–1.4 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 Sylva

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Spalt

NobleEarthyHerbal

Only in Sylva

BohemianHoppyWoody

Property

PropertySpaltSylva
Alpha acid2.5–5.7%4–7.3%
Beta acid3–5%3–7%
Co-humulone22–29%20–28%
Total oil0.5–0.9 mL0.9–1.4 mL
Myrcene20–35%26–36%
Humulene20–30%18–27%
Caryophyllene8–13%5–8%
Farnesene12–18%22–28%
OriginGermanyAustralia
PurposeAromaAroma

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