CrystalvsWai-iti

Crystal and Wai-iti 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

Wai-iti

Aroma

Alpha acid

2.5–3.5%

Beta acid

4.5–5.5%

Total oil

1.4–1.8 mL

New Zealand

Key differences

When to pick Crystal

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

When to pick Wai-iti

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Spicy

Only in Crystal

WoodyFloralGreenFruityCinnamonNutmegBlack currant

Only in Wai-iti

Stone fruitPeachApricotCitrusLimeMandarin

Property

PropertyCrystalWai-iti
Alpha acid2.8–6%2.5–3.5%
Beta acid4.5–8.5%4.5–5.5%
Co-humulone20–26%22–24%
Total oil0.8–2.3 mL1.4–1.8 mL
Myrcene30–55%2–4%
Humulene20–30%27–29%
Caryophyllene5–12%8–10%
Farnesene0–1%12–14%
OriginUnited StatesNew Zealand
PurposeAromaAroma

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