GalenavsSpalter Select

Galena and Spalter Select 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

Spalter Select

Aroma

Alpha acid

3–6.5%

Beta acid

2.5–5%

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 Spalter Select

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Spicy

Only in Galena

FruityPearPineappleBlack currantGrapefruitLimeGooseberryWoody

Only in Spalter Select

Grassy

Property

PropertyGalenaSpalter Select
Alpha acid12–15.5%3–6.5%
Beta acid7.2–8.7%2.5–5%
Co-humulone36–40%21–27%
Total oil0.9–2.1 mL0.5–0.9 mL
Myrcene40–50%20–40%
Humulene11–17%10–22%
Caryophyllene5–9%4–10%
Farnesene0–1%15–22%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeAromaAroma

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