GalenavsSylva

Galena and Sylva 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

Sylva

Aroma

Alpha acid

4–7.3%

Beta acid

3–7%

Total oil

0.9–1.4 mL

Australia

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 Sylva

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Woody

Only in Galena

FruityPearPineappleBlack currantGrapefruitLimeGooseberrySpicy

Only in Sylva

FloralBohemianHoppy

Property

PropertyGalenaSylva
Alpha acid12–15.5%4–7.3%
Beta acid7.2–8.7%3–7%
Co-humulone36–40%20–28%
Total oil0.9–2.1 mL0.9–1.4 mL
Myrcene40–50%26–36%
Humulene11–17%18–27%
Caryophyllene5–9%5–8%
Farnesene0–1%22–28%
OriginUnited StatesAustralia
PurposeAromaAroma

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