ContessavsGalena

Contessa (bittering) and Galena (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Contessa

Bittering

Alpha acid

3–5%

Beta acid

5–7.4%

Total oil

0.8–1.9 mL

United States

Galena

Aroma

Alpha acid

12–15.5%

Beta acid

7.2–8.7%

Total oil

0.9–2.1 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Contessa

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Galena

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Pear

Only in Contessa

GreenFloralLemongrass

Only in Galena

FruityPineappleBlack currantGrapefruitLimeGooseberrySpicyWoody

Property

PropertyContessaGalena
Alpha acid3–5%12–15.5%
Beta acid5–7.4%7.2–8.7%
Co-humulone29–32%36–40%
Total oil0.8–1.9 mL0.9–2.1 mL
Myrcene-40–50%
Humulene-11–17%
Caryophyllene-5–9%
Farnesene-0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeBitteringAroma

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