SpaltvsUltra

Spalt and Ultra 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

Ultra

Aroma

Alpha acid

3–9.7%

Beta acid

3.6–5%

Total oil

0.8–1.5 mL

United States

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 Ultra

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Spalt

NobleEarthyHerbal

Only in Ultra

MildPleasant

Property

PropertySpaltUltra
Alpha acid2.5–5.7%3–9.7%
Beta acid3–5%3.6–5%
Co-humulone22–29%25–35%
Total oil0.5–0.9 mL0.8–1.5 mL
Myrcene20–35%50–60%
Humulene20–30%10–15%
Caryophyllene8–13%6–9%
Farnesene12–18%0–1%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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