SovereignvsGalena

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

Sovereign

Aroma

Alpha acid

4.5–6.5%

Beta acid

2.1–3.1%

Total oil

0.6–1 mL

United Kingdom

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 Sovereign

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

FruityPear

Only in Sovereign

MintFloralGrassyHerbal

Only in Galena

PineappleBlack currantGrapefruitLimeGooseberrySpicyWoody

Property

PropertySovereignGalena
Alpha acid4.5–6.5%12–15.5%
Beta acid2.1–3.1%7.2–8.7%
Co-humulone26–30%36–40%
Total oil0.6–1 mL0.9–2.1 mL
Myrcene20–31%40–50%
Humulene20–27%11–17%
Caryophyllene7–9%5–9%
Farnesene3–4%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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