Crystal
Alpha acid
2.8–6%
Beta acid
4.5–8.5%
Total oil
0.8–2.3 mL
United States
Northdown
Alpha acid
7–10%
Beta acid
4–5.5%
Total oil
1.2–2.5 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Crystal
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Northdown
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
FloralSpicy
Only in Crystal
WoodyGreenFruityCinnamonNutmegBlack currant
Only in Northdown
PineCedarBerry
Property
| Property | Crystal | Northdown |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 2.8–6% | 7–10% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–8.5% | 4–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 20–26% | 24–32% |
| Total oil | 0.8–2.3 mL | 1.2–2.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–55% | 23–29% |
| Humulene | 20–30% | 40–45% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–12% | 13–17% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Dual purpose |
Hersbrucker
Strisselspalt