Crystal
Alpha acid
2.8–6%
Beta acid
4.5–8.5%
Total oil
0.8–2.3 mL
United States
Saaz (US)
Alpha acid
3–4.5%
Beta acid
3–4.5%
Total oil
0.5–1 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Crystal
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Saaz (US)
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Crystal
WoodyFloralGreenFruitySpicyCinnamonNutmegBlack currant
Only in Saaz (US)
SlightlyEarthyNoble
Property
| Property | Crystal | Saaz (US) |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 2.8–6% | 3–4.5% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–8.5% | 3–4.5% |
| Co-humulone | 20–26% | 24–28% |
| Total oil | 0.8–2.3 mL | 0.5–1 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–55% | 25–30% |
| Humulene | 20–30% | 35–40% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–12% | 9–11% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 9–13% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Aroma |
Hersbrucker
Strisselspalt