WakatuvsSpalter Select

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

Wakatu

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

6.5–8.5%

Beta acid

8–8.5%

Total oil

0.9–1.2 mL

New Zealand

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 Wakatu

  • 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 Spalter Select

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Wakatu

FloralLimeTropicalZest

Only in Spalter Select

SpicyGrassy

Property

PropertyWakatuSpalter Select
Alpha acid6.5–8.5%3–6.5%
Beta acid8–8.5%2.5–5%
Co-humulone28–30%21–27%
Total oil0.9–1.2 mL0.5–0.9 mL
Myrcene35–36%20–40%
Humulene16–17%10–22%
Caryophyllene8–9%4–10%
Farnesene6–7%15–22%
OriginNew ZealandGermany
PurposeDual purposeAroma

Related comparisons