CalientevsCrystal

Caliente (dual purpose) and Crystal (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Caliente

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

14–16%

Beta acid

4.3%

Total oil

-

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 Caliente

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • 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 Caliente

CitrusPeachPineStone fruitMandarinLemonZest

Only in Crystal

WoodyFloralGreenFruitySpicyCinnamonNutmegBlack currant

Property

PropertyCalienteCrystal
Alpha acid14–16%2.8–6%
Beta acid4.3%4.5–8.5%
Co-humulone35%20–26%
Total oil-0.8–2.3 mL
Myrcene-30–55%
Humulene-20–30%
Caryophyllene-5–12%
Farnesene-0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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