CrystalvsBarbe Rouge
Crystal and Barbe Rouge are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Crystal
Alpha acid
2.8–6%
Beta acid
4.5–8.5%
Total oil
0.8–2.3 mL
United States
Barbe Rouge
Alpha acid
3.8–10%
Beta acid
3.3–4.6%
Total oil
1.1–3 mL
France
Key differences
When to pick Crystal
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
When to pick Barbe Rouge
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Floral
Only in Crystal
WoodyGreenFruitySpicyCinnamonNutmegBlack currant
Only in Barbe Rouge
CitrusKumquatOrangeLimeRedcurrantStrawberryRaspberryBerryHerbal
Property
| Property | Crystal | Barbe Rouge |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 2.8–6% | 3.8–10% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–8.5% | 3.3–4.6% |
| Co-humulone | 20–26% | 24–28% |
| Total oil | 0.8–2.3 mL | 1.1–3 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–55% | 35–60% |
| Humulene | 20–30% | 15–25% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–12% | 2–4% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–4% |
| Origin | United States | France |
| Purpose | Aroma | Aroma |
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