CrystalvsStrisselspalt

Crystal and Strisselspalt 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

Strisselspalt

Aroma

Alpha acid

1–4%

Beta acid

3–6%

Total oil

0.6–0.8 mL

France

Key differences

When to pick Crystal

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Strisselspalt

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

FloralSpicy

Only in Crystal

WoodyGreenFruityCinnamonNutmegBlack currant

Only in Strisselspalt

CitrusHerbal

Property

PropertyCrystalStrisselspalt
Alpha acid2.8–6%1–4%
Beta acid4.5–8.5%3–6%
Co-humulone20–26%20–27%
Total oil0.8–2.3 mL0.6–0.8 mL
Myrcene30–55%35–52%
Humulene20–30%13–21%
Caryophyllene5–12%8–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesFrance
PurposeAromaAroma

Related comparisons