GalenavsNelson Sauvin
Galena and Nelson Sauvin are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Galena
Alpha acid
12–15.5%
Beta acid
7.2–8.7%
Total oil
0.9–2.1 mL
United States
Nelson Sauvin
Alpha acid
10–13%
Beta acid
5–8%
Total oil
0.8–1.5 mL
New Zealand
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 Nelson Sauvin
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
FruityGooseberry
Only in Galena
PearPineappleBlack currantGrapefruitLimeSpicyWoody
Only in Nelson Sauvin
WhiteGrapesSauvignon
Property
| Property | Galena | Nelson Sauvin |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12–15.5% | 10–13% |
| Beta acid | 7.2–8.7% | 5–8% |
| Co-humulone | 36–40% | 20–25% |
| Total oil | 0.9–2.1 mL | 0.8–1.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 40–50% | 20–45% |
| Humulene | 11–17% | 25–37% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–9% | 6–11% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | New Zealand |
| Purpose | Aroma | Aroma |