GalenavsPacific Gem

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

Galena

Aroma

Alpha acid

12–15.5%

Beta acid

7.2–8.7%

Total oil

0.9–2.1 mL

United States

Pacific Gem

Bittering

Alpha acid

13–15%

Beta acid

7–9%

Total oil

0.8–1.6 mL

New Zealand

Key differences

When to pick Galena

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Pacific Gem

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Black currant

Only in Galena

FruityPearPineappleGrapefruitLimeGooseberrySpicyWoody

Only in Pacific Gem

BerryBlackberryFloralOakPine

Property

PropertyGalenaPacific Gem
Alpha acid12–15.5%13–15%
Beta acid7.2–8.7%7–9%
Co-humulone36–40%35–40%
Total oil0.9–2.1 mL0.8–1.6 mL
Myrcene40–50%30–40%
Humulene11–17%20–30%
Caryophyllene5–9%6–12%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesNew Zealand
PurposeAromaBittering

Related comparisons