GalenavsSmooth Cone
Galena (aroma) and Smooth Cone (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Galena
Alpha acid
12–15.5%
Beta acid
7.2–8.7%
Total oil
0.9–2.1 mL
United States
Smooth Cone
Alpha acid
7–9.5%
Beta acid
3.4–5.2%
Total oil
0.4–1.14 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
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Smooth Cone
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Galena
FruityPearPineappleBlack currantGrapefruitLimeGooseberrySpicyWoody
Only in Smooth Cone
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Property
| Property | Galena | Smooth Cone |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12–15.5% | 7–9.5% |
| Beta acid | 7.2–8.7% | 3.4–5.2% |
| Co-humulone | 36–40% | 31% |
| Total oil | 0.9–2.1 mL | 0.4–1.14 mL |
| Myrcene | 40–50% | 54–56% |
| Humulene | 11–17% | 20–22% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–9% | 5–7% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | New Zealand |
| Purpose | Aroma | Dual purpose |