Spalter SelectvsZamba Blend

Spalter Select and Zamba Blend 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

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 Spalter Select

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
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Spalter Select

SpicyGrassy

Only in Zamba Blend

MangoStone fruitOrangeTangerinePineapple

Property

PropertySpalter SelectZamba Blend
Alpha acid3–6.5%8–12%
Beta acid2.5–5%4–6%
Co-humulone21–27%28–32%
Total oil0.5–0.9 mL1.5–2.5 mL
Myrcene20–40%60–70%
Humulene10–22%9–13%
Caryophyllene4–10%5–8%
Farnesene15–22%1–4%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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