CrystalvsHersbrucker
Crystal and Hersbrucker are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Crystal
Alpha acid
2.8–6%
Beta acid
4.5–8.5%
Total oil
0.8–2.3 mL
United States
Hersbrucker
Alpha acid
1.5–5%
Beta acid
2.5–6%
Total oil
0.5–1.3 mL
Germany
Key differences
When to pick Crystal
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- 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 Hersbrucker
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 Hersbrucker
NobleHayOrangeTobacco
Property
| Property | Crystal | Hersbrucker |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 2.8–6% | 1.5–5% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–8.5% | 2.5–6% |
| Co-humulone | 20–26% | 17–25% |
| Total oil | 0.8–2.3 mL | 0.5–1.3 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–55% | 15–30% |
| Humulene | 20–30% | 20–30% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–12% | 8–13% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | Germany |
| Purpose | Aroma | Aroma |
Strisselspalt