Spalter SelectvsTarget

Spalter Select (aroma) and Target (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

Target

Bittering

Alpha acid

8.5–13.5%

Beta acid

4.3–5.7%

Total oil

1–1.4 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Spalter Select

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Target

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Spicy

Only in Spalter Select

Grassy

Only in Target

CitrusMarmaladeSagePepper

Property

PropertySpalter SelectTarget
Alpha acid3–6.5%8.5–13.5%
Beta acid2.5–5%4.3–5.7%
Co-humulone21–27%35–40%
Total oil0.5–0.9 mL1–1.4 mL
Myrcene20–40%45–55%
Humulene10–22%17–23%
Caryophyllene4–10%8–10%
Farnesene15–22%0–1%
OriginGermanyUnited Kingdom
PurposeAromaBittering

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