Galena
Alpha acid
12–15.5%
Beta acid
7.2–8.7%
Total oil
0.9–2.1 mL
United States
Sterling
Alpha acid
5.5–8.5%
Beta acid
4–6%
Total oil
1–2 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Galena
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Sterling
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 Sterling
NobleHerbalFloral
Property
| Property | Galena | Sterling |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12–15.5% | 5.5–8.5% |
| Beta acid | 7.2–8.7% | 4–6% |
| Co-humulone | 36–40% | 22–28% |
| Total oil | 0.9–2.1 mL | 1–2 mL |
| Myrcene | 40–50% | 35–45% |
| Humulene | 11–17% | 16–18% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–9% | 5–8% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 15–19% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Aroma |