GalenavsHersbrucker

Galena and Hersbrucker are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Galena

Aroma

Alpha acid

12–15.5%

Beta acid

7.2–8.7%

Total oil

0.9–2.1 mL

United States

Hersbrucker

Aroma

Alpha acid

1.5–5%

Beta acid

2.5–6%

Total oil

0.5–1.3 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick Galena

  • 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
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Hersbrucker

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Galena

FruityPearPineappleBlack currantGrapefruitLimeGooseberrySpicyWoody

Only in Hersbrucker

NobleHayOrangeTobacco

Property

PropertyGalenaHersbrucker
Alpha acid12–15.5%1.5–5%
Beta acid7.2–8.7%2.5–6%
Co-humulone36–40%17–25%
Total oil0.9–2.1 mL0.5–1.3 mL
Myrcene40–50%15–30%
Humulene11–17%20–30%
Caryophyllene5–9%8–13%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeAromaAroma

Related comparisons