Crystal
Alpha acid
2.8–6%
Beta acid
4.5–8.5%
Total oil
0.8–2.3 mL
United States
Defender
Alpha acid
3.3–6%
Beta acid
1.1–2.5%
Total oil
0.28–0.98 mL
United Kingdom
Key differences
When to pick Crystal
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Defender
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Crystal
WoodyFloralGreenFruitySpicyCinnamonNutmegBlack currant
Only in Defender
Pleasant
Property
| Property | Crystal | Defender |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 2.8–6% | 3.3–6% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–8.5% | 1.1–2.5% |
| Co-humulone | 20–26% | 23–32% |
| Total oil | 0.8–2.3 mL | 0.28–0.98 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–55% | 30–32% |
| Humulene | 20–30% | 34–36% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–12% | 13–15% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 3–4% |
| Origin | United States | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Aroma | Aroma |
Hersbrucker
Strisselspalt