Crystal
Alpha acid
2.8–6%
Beta acid
4.5–8.5%
Total oil
0.8–2.3 mL
United States
McKenzie
Alpha acid
9–11%
Beta acid
8–9%
Total oil
2–3 mL
United States
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 McKenzie
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Floral
Only in Crystal
WoodyGreenFruitySpicyCinnamonNutmegBlack currant
Only in McKenzie
GrapefruitLemonNectarineMelonPineThymeStone fruitDank
Property
| Property | Crystal | McKenzie |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 2.8–6% | 9–11% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–8.5% | 8–9% |
| Co-humulone | 20–26% | - |
| Total oil | 0.8–2.3 mL | 2–3 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–55% | - |
| Humulene | 20–30% | - |
| Caryophyllene | 5–12% | - |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | - |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Aroma |
Hersbrucker
Strisselspalt