CrystalvsDelta

Crystal and Delta are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Crystal

Aroma

Alpha acid

2.8–6%

Beta acid

4.5–8.5%

Total oil

0.8–2.3 mL

United States

Delta

Aroma

Alpha acid

5.5–7%

Beta acid

5.5–7%

Total oil

0.5–1.1 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Crystal

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Delta

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Spicy

Only in Crystal

WoodyFloralGreenFruityCinnamonNutmegBlack currant

Only in Delta

CitrusMelon

Property

PropertyCrystalDelta
Alpha acid2.8–6%5.5–7%
Beta acid4.5–8.5%5.5–7%
Co-humulone20–26%22–24%
Total oil0.8–2.3 mL0.5–1.1 mL
Myrcene30–55%25–40%
Humulene20–30%25–35%
Caryophyllene5–12%9–15%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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