GalenavsMedusa

Galena and Medusa 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

Medusa

Aroma

Alpha acid

3–5%

Beta acid

5–6.5%

Total oil

0.4–0.7 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Galena

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

When to pick Medusa

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Lime

Only in Galena

FruityPearPineappleBlack currantGrapefruitGooseberrySpicyWoody

Only in Medusa

GuavaMelonCitrusApricotLemonAlfalfaPeach

Property

PropertyGalenaMedusa
Alpha acid12–15.5%3–5%
Beta acid7.2–8.7%5–6.5%
Co-humulone36–40%35–49%
Total oil0.9–2.1 mL0.4–0.7 mL
Myrcene40–50%54–55%
Humulene11–17%9–10%
Caryophyllene5–9%13–14%
Farnesene0–1%1–2%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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