Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV)vsGalena

Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV) (dual purpose) and Galena (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV)

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5.4–7.7%

Beta acid

2–3.5%

Total oil

0.8–1.2 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 Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV)

  • 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

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV)

EarthyFloralSweetHerbal

Only in Galena

FruityPearPineappleBlack currantGrapefruitLimeGooseberrySpicyWoody

Property

PropertyWhitbread Golding Variety (WGV)Galena
Alpha acid5.4–7.7%12–15.5%
Beta acid2–3.5%7.2–8.7%
Co-humulone35–43%36–40%
Total oil0.8–1.2 mL0.9–2.1 mL
Myrcene19–27%40–50%
Humulene35–42%11–17%
Caryophyllene11–15%5–9%
Farnesene1–2%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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