AmarillovsCrystal

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

Amarillo

Aroma

Alpha acid

7–11%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

1–2.3 mL

United States

Crystal

Aroma

Alpha acid

2.8–6%

Beta acid

4.5–8.5%

Total oil

0.8–2.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Amarillo

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Crystal

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

FloralSpicy

Only in Amarillo

TropicalCitrusOrangeLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Only in Crystal

WoodyGreenFruityCinnamonNutmegBlack currant

Property

PropertyAmarilloCrystal
Alpha acid7–11%2.8–6%
Beta acid5.5–8%4.5–8.5%
Co-humulone21–24%20–26%
Total oil1–2.3 mL0.8–2.3 mL
Myrcene40–70%30–55%
Humulene19–24%20–30%
Caryophyllene7–10%5–12%
Farnesene6–9%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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