CrystalvsVic Secret
Crystal (aroma) and Vic Secret (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
Vic Secret
Alpha acid
14–21.8%
Beta acid
5.7–8.7%
Total oil
1.9–2.8 mL
Australia
Key differences
When to pick Crystal
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Vic Secret
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- 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 Vic Secret
TropicalPineapplePinePassion fruitHerbalEarthy
Property
| Property | Crystal | Vic Secret |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 2.8–6% | 14–21.8% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–8.5% | 5.7–8.7% |
| Co-humulone | 20–26% | 51–57% |
| Total oil | 0.8–2.3 mL | 1.9–2.8 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–55% | 31–46% |
| Humulene | 20–30% | 9–21% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–12% | 9–15% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | Australia |
| Purpose | Aroma | Dual purpose |
Hersbrucker