CrystalvsStyrian Dragon
Crystal and Styrian Dragon are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Crystal
Alpha acid
2.8–6%
Beta acid
4.5–8.5%
Total oil
0.8–2.3 mL
United States
Styrian Dragon
Alpha acid
6–11%
Beta acid
7.5–8.5%
Total oil
1.5–2.1 mL
Slovenia
Key differences
When to pick Crystal
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
When to pick Styrian Dragon
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Floral
Only in Crystal
WoodyGreenFruitySpicyCinnamonNutmegBlack currant
Only in Styrian Dragon
CitrusGrapefruitLemonBerryRoseTropical
Property
| Property | Crystal | Styrian Dragon |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 2.8–6% | 6–11% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–8.5% | 7.5–8.5% |
| Co-humulone | 20–26% | 23–24% |
| Total oil | 0.8–2.3 mL | 1.5–2.1 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–55% | 58–63% |
| Humulene | 20–30% | 22–33% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–12% | 12–16% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | Slovenia |
| Purpose | Aroma | Aroma |
Hersbrucker
Strisselspalt