CrystalvsSussex

Crystal and Sussex 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

Sussex

Aroma

Alpha acid

4.3–5.8%

Beta acid

2.4–3.2%

Total oil

0.4–0.6 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Crystal

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

When to pick Sussex

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

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Crystal

WoodyFloralGreenFruitySpicyCinnamonNutmegBlack currant

Only in Sussex

EarthyGrassyMintVanillaCitrus

Property

PropertyCrystalSussex
Alpha acid2.8–6%4.3–5.8%
Beta acid4.5–8.5%2.4–3.2%
Co-humulone20–26%29–32%
Total oil0.8–2.3 mL0.4–0.6 mL
Myrcene30–55%41–43%
Humulene20–30%22–24%
Caryophyllene5–12%-
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeAromaAroma

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