UltravsSpalt

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

Ultra

Aroma

Alpha acid

3–9.7%

Beta acid

3.6–5%

Total oil

0.8–1.5 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 Ultra

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

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

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Ultra

MildPleasant

Only in Spalt

NobleEarthyHerbal

Property

PropertyUltraSpalt
Alpha acid3–9.7%2.5–5.7%
Beta acid3.6–5%3–5%
Co-humulone25–35%22–29%
Total oil0.8–1.5 mL0.5–0.9 mL
Myrcene50–60%20–35%
Humulene10–15%20–30%
Caryophyllene6–9%8–13%
Farnesene0–1%12–18%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeAromaAroma

Related comparisons