Bitter GoldvsCrystal
Bitter Gold (dual purpose) and Crystal (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Bitter Gold
Alpha acid
12–18.8%
Beta acid
4.5–8%
Total oil
0.8–3.9 mL
United States
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 Bitter Gold
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
When to pick Crystal
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Floral
Only in Bitter Gold
Stone fruitTropicalPearWatermelonGrassyGrapefruit
Only in Crystal
WoodyGreenFruitySpicyCinnamonNutmegBlack currant
Property
| Property | Bitter Gold | Crystal |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12–18.8% | 2.8–6% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–8% | 4.5–8.5% |
| Co-humulone | 36–41% | 20–26% |
| Total oil | 0.8–3.9 mL | 0.8–2.3 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–68% | 30–55% |
| Humulene | 7–18% | 20–30% |
| Caryophyllene | 7–11% | 5–12% |
| Farnesene | 0–2% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |
Hersbrucker