TargetvsSpalt

Target (bittering) and Spalt (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Target

Bittering

Alpha acid

8.5–13.5%

Beta acid

4.3–5.7%

Total oil

1–1.4 mL

United Kingdom

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 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

When to pick Spalt

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Target

CitrusMarmaladeSageSpicyPepper

Only in Spalt

NobleEarthyHerbalFloral

Property

PropertyTargetSpalt
Alpha acid8.5–13.5%2.5–5.7%
Beta acid4.3–5.7%3–5%
Co-humulone35–40%22–29%
Total oil1–1.4 mL0.5–0.9 mL
Myrcene45–55%20–35%
Humulene17–23%20–30%
Caryophyllene8–10%8–13%
Farnesene0–1%12–18%
OriginUnited KingdomGermany
PurposeBitteringAroma

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