GalenavsSouthern Aroma

Galena and Southern Aroma 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

Southern Aroma

Aroma

Alpha acid

3.6–7.3%

Beta acid

5.4–6%

Total oil

0.6–0.8 mL

South Africa

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 Southern Aroma

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Black currant

Only in Galena

FruityPearPineappleGrapefruitLimeGooseberrySpicyWoody

Only in Southern Aroma

FloralHayHerbalStrawNoble

Property

PropertyGalenaSouthern Aroma
Alpha acid12–15.5%3.6–7.3%
Beta acid7.2–8.7%5.4–6%
Co-humulone36–40%19–25%
Total oil0.9–2.1 mL0.6–0.8 mL
Myrcene40–50%17–28%
Humulene11–17%22–23%
Caryophyllene5–9%13–15%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesSouth Africa
PurposeAromaAroma

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