GalenavsSaaz (US)

Galena and Saaz (US) 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

Saaz (US)

Aroma

Alpha acid

3–4.5%

Beta acid

3–4.5%

Total oil

0.5–1 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
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Saaz (US)

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Galena

FruityPearPineappleBlack currantGrapefruitLimeGooseberrySpicyWoody

Only in Saaz (US)

SlightlyEarthyNoble

Property

PropertyGalenaSaaz (US)
Alpha acid12–15.5%3–4.5%
Beta acid7.2–8.7%3–4.5%
Co-humulone36–40%24–28%
Total oil0.9–2.1 mL0.5–1 mL
Myrcene40–50%25–30%
Humulene11–17%35–40%
Caryophyllene5–9%9–11%
Farnesene0–1%9–13%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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