Crystal
Alpha acid
2.8–6%
Beta acid
4.5–8.5%
Total oil
0.8–2.3 mL
United States
Target
Alpha acid
8.5–13.5%
Beta acid
4.3–5.7%
Total oil
1–1.4 mL
United Kingdom
Key differences
When to pick Crystal
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Target
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Spicy
Only in Crystal
WoodyFloralGreenFruityCinnamonNutmegBlack currant
Only in Target
CitrusMarmaladeSagePepper
Property
| Property | Crystal | Target |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 2.8–6% | 8.5–13.5% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–8.5% | 4.3–5.7% |
| Co-humulone | 20–26% | 35–40% |
| Total oil | 0.8–2.3 mL | 1–1.4 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–55% | 45–55% |
| Humulene | 20–30% | 17–23% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–12% | 8–10% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Aroma | Bittering |
Hersbrucker