SpaltvsZamba Blend

Spalt and Zamba Blend 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

Zamba Blend

Aroma

Alpha acid

8–12%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

1.5–2.5 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 Zamba Blend

  • 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

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Spalt

NobleEarthyHerbalFloral

Only in Zamba Blend

MangoStone fruitOrangeTangerinePineapple

Property

PropertySpaltZamba Blend
Alpha acid2.5–5.7%8–12%
Beta acid3–5%4–6%
Co-humulone22–29%28–32%
Total oil0.5–0.9 mL1.5–2.5 mL
Myrcene20–35%60–70%
Humulene20–30%9–13%
Caryophyllene8–13%5–8%
Farnesene12–18%1–4%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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