Spalter SelectvsEast Kent Goldings

Spalter Select (aroma) and East Kent Goldings (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Spalter Select

Aroma

Alpha acid

3–6.5%

Beta acid

2.5–5%

Total oil

0.5–0.9 mL

Germany

East Kent Goldings

Bittering

Alpha acid

4–6.5%

Beta acid

1.9–3.5%

Total oil

0.4–1 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Spalter Select

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick East Kent Goldings

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

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Spalter Select

SpicyGrassy

Only in East Kent Goldings

LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrangeGrapefruitFloral

Property

PropertySpalter SelectEast Kent Goldings
Alpha acid3–6.5%4–6.5%
Beta acid2.5–5%1.9–3.5%
Co-humulone21–27%20–32%
Total oil0.5–0.9 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene20–40%29–31%
Humulene10–22%38–44%
Caryophyllene4–10%12–16%
Farnesene15–22%0–1%
OriginGermanyUnited Kingdom
PurposeAromaBittering

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