SummervsSpalt

Summer and Spalt are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Summer

Aroma

Alpha acid

5.6–6.4%

Beta acid

4.8–6.1%

Total oil

1.4–2 mL

Australia

Spalt

Aroma

Alpha acid

2.5–5.7%

Beta acid

3–5%

Total oil

0.5–0.9 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick Summer

  • 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

When to pick Spalt

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

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Summer

ApricotMelonGrassyCitrusStone fruitPassion fruitPeach

Only in Spalt

NobleEarthyHerbalFloral

Property

PropertySummerSpalt
Alpha acid5.6–6.4%2.5–5.7%
Beta acid4.8–6.1%3–5%
Co-humulone20–25%22–29%
Total oil1.4–2 mL0.5–0.9 mL
Myrcene29–38%20–35%
Humulene28–50%20–30%
Caryophyllene8–11%8–13%
Farnesene0–1%12–18%
OriginAustraliaGermany
PurposeAromaAroma

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