Crystal
Alpha acid
2.8–6%
Beta acid
4.5–8.5%
Total oil
0.8–2.3 mL
United States
Chelan
Alpha acid
12–15%
Beta acid
8.5–10%
Total oil
1.5–1.9 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Crystal
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Chelan
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
FloralFruity
Only in Crystal
WoodyGreenSpicyCinnamonNutmegBlack currant
Only in Chelan
CitrusMild
Property
| Property | Crystal | Chelan |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 2.8–6% | 12–15% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–8.5% | 8.5–10% |
| Co-humulone | 20–26% | 33–35% |
| Total oil | 0.8–2.3 mL | 1.5–1.9 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–55% | 45–55% |
| Humulene | 20–30% | 12–15% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–12% | 9–12% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Bittering |
Hersbrucker