GR Spalter Select Hop Profile
Origin:
- Germany
- Developed at the Hop Research Center Hüll (released in the 1990s)
- Bred from Hallertau Mittelfrüh to offer a healthier, more disease-resistant aroma hop similar to Spalt and Hallertau
Type:
- Aroma hop (classic "noble" European character)
Typical Alpha Acids:
Beta Acids:
Aroma & Flavor Notes:
-
Spicy: Mild, classic noble hop spice
-
Herbal: Soft herbs and gentle bitterness
-
Floral: Delicate blossoms, wildflower
-
Earthy: Mellow, subtle, clean earth background
-
Other: Sometimes sweet hay or mild grass
Brewing Characteristics:
- Very similar to Spalt and Hallertau Mittelfrüh, with classic “Old World” noble character and delicate hop aroma
- Excellent for lagers and German ales where refined bitterness and aroma are crucial
- Often used for aroma and late kettle/dry hop additions to retain noble elegance
Best Beer Styles:
- Pilsner, Helles, Export, and other pale lagers
- Kölsch, Altbier
- Wheat Beer, Blonde Ale
- Belgian Blonde, Saison, and farmhouse styles
Substitutes:
- Spalt (closest, original “noble” genotype)
- Hallertau Mittelfrüh (gentle, herbal, floral)
- Tettnang or Saaz (milder noble hop substitutes)
Fun Fact:
Spalter Select was bred to be more stable and disease-resistant than traditional Spalt, but with unmistakable noble hop aroma—making it a favorite for craft brewers seeking real German authenticity!
