CrystalvsSonnet

Crystal and Sonnet 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

Sonnet

Aroma

Alpha acid

2.6–7.4%

Beta acid

2–3.7%

Total oil

0.2–1 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Crystal

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

When to pick Sonnet

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Crystal

WoodyGreenFruitySpicyCinnamonNutmegBlack currant

Only in Sonnet

HoneysuckleCitrusSweetLemonEarthyGrassHoneyOak

Property

PropertyCrystalSonnet
Alpha acid2.8–6%2.6–7.4%
Beta acid4.5–8.5%2–3.7%
Co-humulone20–26%-
Total oil0.8–2.3 mL0.2–1 mL
Myrcene30–55%-
Humulene20–30%-
Caryophyllene5–12%-
Farnesene0–1%-
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

Related comparisons