Galena Hop Pellets
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Galena Hops are one of the earliest high-alpha American hop varieties developed specifically for bittering, but home brewers have come to appreciate them for more than just IBUs. Released by the USDA breeding program in the late 1960s and widely grown by the 1970s, Galena helped usher in a new era of efficient American hop production with bold, clean bitterness and subtle fruitiness.
Though traditionally used as a bittering workhorse, Galena also contributes pleasant citrus, blackcurrant, and pear notes when used late in the boil or for dry hopping. This versatility makes Galena suitable for homebrewed American Pale Ales, Amber Ales, Brown Ales, and even Barleywines.
Galena is great when you're looking for a clean bitterness with hints of citrus and dark fruit, without overwhelming the malt backbone.
Technical Details:
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Alpha Acids: 12.0%–14.0%
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Beta Acids: 7.0%–9.0%
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Total Oils: 1.4–2.0 mL/100g
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Usage: Bittering, with light aroma/flavor potential
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Ideal For: American Pale Ales, Amber Ales, Brown Ales, Barleywines
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Country of Origin: United States
Galena Hops FAQ
What do Galena hops taste like?
Galena hops provide clean bitterness along with citrus peel, blackcurrant, pear, and subtle spice when used for late additions or dry hopping.
Are Galena hops only used for bittering?
No. While Galena is primarily a bittering hop due to its high alpha acids, home brewers also use it in later additions for unique fruity and citrus tones.
What are good substitutes for Galena hops?
If Galena isn’t available, try Nugget, Magnum, or Cluster for similar bittering qualities.
What beer styles work best with Galena?
Galena works well in stronger and maltier styles like Brown Ales, Barleywines, and Amber Ales where its smooth bitterness complements darker malt flavors.
Where do Galena hops come from?
Galena was bred in Idaho by the USDA in the 1960s and became one of the earliest commercially successful American high-alpha hops.
