Spalter SelectvsNelson Sauvin

Spalter Select and Nelson Sauvin are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Spalter Select

Aroma

Alpha acid

3–6.5%

Beta acid

2.5–5%

Total oil

0.5–0.9 mL

Germany

Nelson Sauvin

Aroma

Alpha acid

10–13%

Beta acid

5–8%

Total oil

0.8–1.5 mL

New Zealand

Key differences

When to pick Spalter Select

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

When to pick Nelson Sauvin

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

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Spalter Select

SpicyGrassy

Only in Nelson Sauvin

WhiteFruityGooseberryGrapesSauvignon

Property

PropertySpalter SelectNelson Sauvin
Alpha acid3–6.5%10–13%
Beta acid2.5–5%5–8%
Co-humulone21–27%20–25%
Total oil0.5–0.9 mL0.8–1.5 mL
Myrcene20–40%20–45%
Humulene10–22%25–37%
Caryophyllene4–10%6–11%
Farnesene15–22%0–1%
OriginGermanyNew Zealand
PurposeAromaAroma

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