Crystal
Alpha acid
2.8–6%
Beta acid
4.5–8.5%
Total oil
0.8–2.3 mL
United States
Elixir
Alpha acid
4.6–7%
Beta acid
4.5–6.6%
Total oil
1.8–2.2 mL
France
Key differences
When to pick Crystal
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
When to pick Elixir
- 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
FloralSpicy
Only in Crystal
WoodyGreenFruityCinnamonNutmegBlack currant
Only in Elixir
RoseCognacLeatherTobaccoCitrusTropicalTangerineOrangeSandalwood
Property
| Property | Crystal | Elixir |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 2.8–6% | 4.6–7% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–8.5% | 4.5–6.6% |
| Co-humulone | 20–26% | 25–30% |
| Total oil | 0.8–2.3 mL | 1.8–2.2 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–55% | 65–75% |
| Humulene | 20–30% | 1–2% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–12% | 26–27% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | France |
| Purpose | Aroma | Aroma |
Hersbrucker