CrystalvsSamba

Crystal and Samba 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

Samba

Aroma

Alpha acid

8–12%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

1.5–2.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Crystal

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Samba

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Crystal

WoodyFloralGreenFruitySpicyCinnamonNutmegBlack currant

Only in Samba

TropicalPineappleMangoStone fruitCandyOrange

Property

PropertyCrystalSamba
Alpha acid2.8–6%8–12%
Beta acid4.5–8.5%4–6%
Co-humulone20–26%28–32%
Total oil0.8–2.3 mL1.5–2.5 mL
Myrcene30–55%-
Humulene20–30%-
Caryophyllene5–12%-
Farnesene0–1%-
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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