Crystal
Alpha acid
2.8–6%
Beta acid
4.5–8.5%
Total oil
0.8–2.3 mL
United States
Harlequin
Alpha acid
9–12%
Beta acid
7–9%
Total oil
1–1.6 mL
UK
Key differences
When to pick Crystal
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Harlequin
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Crystal
WoodyFloralGreenFruitySpicyCinnamonNutmegBlack currant
Only in Harlequin
Passion fruitPeachPineapple
Property
| Property | Crystal | Harlequin |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 2.8–6% | 9–12% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–8.5% | 7–9% |
| Co-humulone | 20–26% | 27–31% |
| Total oil | 0.8–2.3 mL | 1–1.6 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–55% | 59–61% |
| Humulene | 20–30% | 4–6% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–12% | - |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 9–11% |
| Origin | United States | UK |
| Purpose | Aroma | Dual purpose |
Hersbrucker