Astra
Alpha acid
7–10%
Beta acid
4–6%
Total oil
1–3 mL
Australia
Crystal
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 Astra
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
When to pick Crystal
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Astra
TropicalSweetPeachWhiteMelonGrassyGrapefruitHoney
Only in Crystal
WoodyFloralGreenFruitySpicyCinnamonNutmegBlack currant
Property
| Property | Astra | Crystal |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 7–10% | 2.8–6% |
| Beta acid | 4–6% | 4.5–8.5% |
| Co-humulone | 26–28% | 20–26% |
| Total oil | 1–3 mL | 0.8–2.3 mL |
| Myrcene | - | 30–55% |
| Humulene | 6–8% | 20–30% |
| Caryophyllene | 2–3% | 5–12% |
| Farnesene | - | 0–1% |
| Origin | Australia | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |
Hersbrucker
Strisselspalt