This issue’s hops have been chosen because they are perfect for lagers and other light beers. We love them and have used these varieties in some of the epic all grain recipes you can find from in this issue 

Spalter Select (Germany)

Perfectly suited for lagers and light beer styles, Spalter Select brings a refined, classic aroma that elevates every pour. With gentle floral notes and a touch of spice, it’s a brewer’s go-to for balance and subtlety.

Born from a cross between Spalt and Hallertau Mittelfrüh, this variety was introduced in the late 1980s. Whether you’re crafting a delicate pilsner or a refreshing helles, Spalter Select delivers tradition with a modern edge. Great to use alongside other varieties such as Tettnang or Hersbrucker.

A timeless aroma hop for crisp, clean brews!

Aroma: Herbal, floral, earthy

Alpha Range: 3-6% | Beta Range: 2-5%

Total Oil: 0.5-1.2ml/100g

Uses: Lagers, Kölsch, Helles, and other light, delicately balanced beers.

Hallertau Mittelfrüh (Germany)

Hallertau Mittelfrüh, sometimes called Hallertauer Mittelfruher or, colloquially, Hall Mitt, is the signature landrace hop of the Hallertau region in Bavaria, Germany. With roots stretching back over a century, it stands as a cornerstone of traditional German brewing and is widely regarded as the epitome of noble hops. The other varieties officially classed as noble hops are Tettnang, Saaz and Spalt, all of which have have also been around for hundreds of years. Noble hops are known for low alpha acid content (3–5.5%), and mainly used for aroma and flavour rather than intense bittering. Interestingly, the term landrace hops differs from noble hops, the latter being seen as a more commercial/marketing term, having been coined in the US in the 1970s. Either way, Hallertau Mittelfrüh falls into both categories.

Used primarily in late boil additions and dry hopping, and ideal for blending with other noble varieties, Hallertau Mittelfrüh imparts a mild yet spicy character, accented by floral and citrus notes. Its low alpha acid content giving it star aroma qualities, bringing subtlety and balance to lagers and other classic styles. When used in continental lagers, Hallertau Mittelfrüh pairs well with other varieties like Saaz, Hersbrucker and Tradition. Use with Saphir in pilsners and Belgian styles for added complexity and spice.

Aroma: Herbal, floral, grassy

Alpha: 3-6% | Beta Range: 3-5%

Total Oil: 1.0ml/100g

Uses: German-style lagers including Helles, Kölsch and Pilsner.