Galena
Alpha acid
12–15.5%
Beta acid
7.2–8.7%
Total oil
0.9–2.1 mL
United States
Polaris
Alpha acid
18–23%
Beta acid
4.5–6.5%
Total oil
4–5 mL
Germany
Key differences
When to pick Galena
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Polaris
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Pineapple
Only in Galena
FruityPearBlack currantGrapefruitLimeGooseberrySpicyWoody
Only in Polaris
MintMenthol
Property
| Property | Galena | Polaris |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12–15.5% | 18–23% |
| Beta acid | 7.2–8.7% | 4.5–6.5% |
| Co-humulone | 36–40% | 22–29% |
| Total oil | 0.9–2.1 mL | 4–5 mL |
| Myrcene | 40–50% | 49–51% |
| Humulene | 11–17% | 20–35% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–9% | 8–13% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | Germany |
| Purpose | Aroma | Dual purpose |