GalenavsRiwaka

Galena and Riwaka 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

Riwaka

Aroma

Alpha acid

4.5–6.5%

Beta acid

4–5%

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
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Riwaka

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Grapefruit

Only in Galena

FruityPearPineappleBlack currantLimeGooseberrySpicyWoody

Only in Riwaka

TropicalPassion fruitCitrus

Property

PropertyGalenaRiwaka
Alpha acid12–15.5%4.5–6.5%
Beta acid7.2–8.7%4–5%
Co-humulone36–40%29–38%
Total oil0.9–2.1 mL0.8–1.5 mL
Myrcene40–50%67–70%
Humulene11–17%8–10%
Caryophyllene5–9%2–6%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesNew Zealand
PurposeAromaAroma

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