USDA 008vsSpalter Select

USDA 008 (dual purpose) and Spalter Select (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

USDA 008

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

10.1–11.1%

Beta acid

2.7–3.3%

Total oil

1.6–1.7 mL

United States

Spalter Select

Aroma

Alpha acid

3–6.5%

Beta acid

2.5–5%

Total oil

0.5–0.9 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick USDA 008

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

When to pick Spalter Select

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in USDA 008

FloralCitrusSweetPeachMangoStone fruit

Only in Spalter Select

SpicyGrassy

Property

PropertyUSDA 008Spalter Select
Alpha acid10.1–11.1%3–6.5%
Beta acid2.7–3.3%2.5–5%
Co-humulone25–26%21–27%
Total oil1.6–1.7 mL0.5–0.9 mL
Myrcene6–7%20–40%
Humulene48–49%10–22%
Caryophyllene16–17%4–10%
Farnesene0–1%15–22%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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