CrystalvsNelson Sauvin

Crystal and Nelson Sauvin are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Crystal

Aroma

Alpha acid

2.8–6%

Beta acid

4.5–8.5%

Total oil

0.8–2.3 mL

United States

Nelson Sauvin

Aroma

Alpha acid

10–13%

Beta acid

5–8%

Total oil

0.8–1.5 mL

New Zealand

Key differences

When to pick Crystal

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Nelson Sauvin

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Fruity

Only in Crystal

WoodyFloralGreenSpicyCinnamonNutmegBlack currant

Only in Nelson Sauvin

WhiteGooseberryGrapesSauvignon

Property

PropertyCrystalNelson Sauvin
Alpha acid2.8–6%10–13%
Beta acid4.5–8.5%5–8%
Co-humulone20–26%20–25%
Total oil0.8–2.3 mL0.8–1.5 mL
Myrcene30–55%20–45%
Humulene20–30%25–37%
Caryophyllene5–12%6–11%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesNew Zealand
PurposeAromaAroma

Related comparisons