TaihekevsSpalt

Taiheke (dual purpose) and Spalt (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Taiheke

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5–9%

Beta acid

5–5.5%

Total oil

1–1.5 mL

New Zealand

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 Taiheke

  • 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
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Spalt

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Taiheke

CitrusTropicalGrapefruitLemonLimeSpicy

Only in Spalt

NobleEarthyHerbal

Property

PropertyTaihekeSpalt
Alpha acid5–9%2.5–5.7%
Beta acid5–5.5%3–5%
Co-humulone33–40%22–29%
Total oil1–1.5 mL0.5–0.9 mL
Myrcene50–60%20–35%
Humulene10–20%20–30%
Caryophyllene5–10%8–13%
Farnesene0–5%12–18%
OriginNew ZealandGermany
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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