CrystalvsSticklebract
Crystal (aroma) and Sticklebract (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Crystal
Alpha acid
2.8–6%
Beta acid
4.5–8.5%
Total oil
0.8–2.3 mL
United States
Sticklebract
Alpha acid
12–15%
Beta acid
6–8.5%
Total oil
0.75–1.8 mL
New Zealand
Key differences
When to pick Crystal
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Sticklebract
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- 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 Sticklebract
PineCitrus
Property
| Property | Crystal | Sticklebract |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 2.8–6% | 12–15% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–8.5% | 6–8.5% |
| Co-humulone | 20–26% | 35–45% |
| Total oil | 0.8–2.3 mL | 0.75–1.8 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–55% | 14–64% |
| Humulene | 20–30% | 7–26% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–12% | 3–13% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 4–7% |
| Origin | United States | New Zealand |
| Purpose | Aroma | Dual purpose |
Hersbrucker
Sorachi Ace