HersbruckervsGalena

Hersbrucker and Galena are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Hersbrucker

Aroma

Alpha acid

1.5–5%

Beta acid

2.5–6%

Total oil

0.5–1.3 mL

Germany

Galena

Aroma

Alpha acid

12–15.5%

Beta acid

7.2–8.7%

Total oil

0.9–2.1 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Hersbrucker

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

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

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Hersbrucker

NobleHayOrangeTobacco

Only in Galena

FruityPearPineappleBlack currantGrapefruitLimeGooseberrySpicyWoody

Property

PropertyHersbruckerGalena
Alpha acid1.5–5%12–15.5%
Beta acid2.5–6%7.2–8.7%
Co-humulone17–25%36–40%
Total oil0.5–1.3 mL0.9–2.1 mL
Myrcene15–30%40–50%
Humulene20–30%11–17%
Caryophyllene8–13%5–9%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

Related comparisons