Crystal
Alpha acid
2.8–6%
Beta acid
4.5–8.5%
Total oil
0.8–2.3 mL
United States
Polaris
Alpha acid
18–23%
Beta acid
4.5–6.5%
Total oil
4–5 mL
Germany
Key differences
When to pick Crystal
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Polaris
- 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 Polaris
MintMentholPineapple
Property
| Property | Crystal | Polaris |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 2.8–6% | 18–23% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–8.5% | 4.5–6.5% |
| Co-humulone | 20–26% | 22–29% |
| Total oil | 0.8–2.3 mL | 4–5 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–55% | 49–51% |
| Humulene | 20–30% | 20–35% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–12% | 8–13% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | Germany |
| Purpose | Aroma | Dual purpose |