Crystal
Alpha acid
2.8–6%
Beta acid
4.5–8.5%
Total oil
0.8–2.3 mL
United States
Merkur
Alpha acid
12–16.2%
Beta acid
4.5–7.3%
Total oil
2–3 mL
Germany
Key differences
When to pick Crystal
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Merkur
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- 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 Merkur
SugarPineappleMintCitrusEarthy
Property
| Property | Crystal | Merkur |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 2.8–6% | 12–16.2% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–8.5% | 4.5–7.3% |
| Co-humulone | 20–26% | 17–20% |
| Total oil | 0.8–2.3 mL | 2–3 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–55% | 45–50% |
| Humulene | 20–30% | 28–32% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–12% | 8–10% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | Germany |
| Purpose | Aroma | Dual purpose |
Strisselspalt