SpaltvsGalena

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

Spalt

Aroma

Alpha acid

2.5–5.7%

Beta acid

3–5%

Total oil

0.5–0.9 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 Spalt

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 Spalt

NobleEarthyHerbalFloral

Only in Galena

FruityPearPineappleBlack currantGrapefruitLimeGooseberrySpicyWoody

Property

PropertySpaltGalena
Alpha acid2.5–5.7%12–15.5%
Beta acid3–5%7.2–8.7%
Co-humulone22–29%36–40%
Total oil0.5–0.9 mL0.9–2.1 mL
Myrcene20–35%40–50%
Humulene20–30%11–17%
Caryophyllene8–13%5–9%
Farnesene12–18%0–1%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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