GalenavsSpalt

Galena and Spalt 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

Spalt

Aroma

Alpha acid

2.5–5.7%

Beta acid

3–5%

Total oil

0.5–0.9 mL

Germany

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 Spalt

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 Spalt

NobleEarthyHerbalFloral

Property

PropertyGalenaSpalt
Alpha acid12–15.5%2.5–5.7%
Beta acid7.2–8.7%3–5%
Co-humulone36–40%22–29%
Total oil0.9–2.1 mL0.5–0.9 mL
Myrcene40–50%20–35%
Humulene11–17%20–30%
Caryophyllene5–9%8–13%
Farnesene0–1%12–18%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeAromaAroma

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