Nelson SauvinvsGalena

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

Nelson Sauvin

Aroma

Alpha acid

10–13%

Beta acid

5–8%

Total oil

0.8–1.5 mL

New Zealand

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 Nelson Sauvin

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

Shared aromas

FruityGooseberry

Only in Nelson Sauvin

WhiteGrapesSauvignon

Only in Galena

PearPineappleBlack currantGrapefruitLimeSpicyWoody

Property

PropertyNelson SauvinGalena
Alpha acid10–13%12–15.5%
Beta acid5–8%7.2–8.7%
Co-humulone20–25%36–40%
Total oil0.8–1.5 mL0.9–2.1 mL
Myrcene20–45%40–50%
Humulene25–37%11–17%
Caryophyllene6–11%5–9%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginNew ZealandUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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