TridentvsSpalt

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

Trident

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11–14%

Beta acid

4–5%

Total oil

1.5–3 mL

United States

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 Trident

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Spalt

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Trident

FruityCitrusTropicalPassion fruit

Only in Spalt

NobleEarthyHerbalFloral

Property

PropertyTridentSpalt
Alpha acid11–14%2.5–5.7%
Beta acid4–5%3–5%
Co-humulone20–30%22–29%
Total oil1.5–3 mL0.5–0.9 mL
Myrcene-20–35%
Humulene-20–30%
Caryophyllene-8–13%
Farnesene-12–18%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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