GalenavsUSDA 008

Galena (aroma) and USDA 008 (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Galena

Aroma

Alpha acid

12–15.5%

Beta acid

7.2–8.7%

Total oil

0.9–2.1 mL

United States

USDA 008

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

10.1–11.1%

Beta acid

2.7–3.3%

Total oil

1.6–1.7 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
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick USDA 008

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Galena

FruityPearPineappleBlack currantGrapefruitLimeGooseberrySpicyWoody

Only in USDA 008

FloralCitrusSweetPeachMangoStone fruit

Property

PropertyGalenaUSDA 008
Alpha acid12–15.5%10.1–11.1%
Beta acid7.2–8.7%2.7–3.3%
Co-humulone36–40%25–26%
Total oil0.9–2.1 mL1.6–1.7 mL
Myrcene40–50%6–7%
Humulene11–17%48–49%
Caryophyllene5–9%16–17%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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