Opal
Alpha acid
5–14%
Beta acid
3.5–5.5%
Total oil
0.8–1.3 mL
Germany
Galena
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 Opal
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
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
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Black currantSpicy
Only in Opal
CitrusFloralHerbalAnise
Only in Galena
FruityPearPineappleGrapefruitLimeGooseberryWoody
Property
| Property | Opal | Galena |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5–14% | 12–15.5% |
| Beta acid | 3.5–5.5% | 7.2–8.7% |
| Co-humulone | 13–34% | 36–40% |
| Total oil | 0.8–1.3 mL | 0.9–2.1 mL |
| Myrcene | 20–45% | 40–50% |
| Humulene | 30–50% | 11–17% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–15% | 5–9% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Germany | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |
Styrian Golding