Defender
Alpha acid
3.3–6%
Beta acid
1.1–2.5%
Total oil
0.28–0.98 mL
United Kingdom
Crystal
Alpha acid
2.8–6%
Beta acid
4.5–8.5%
Total oil
0.8–2.3 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Defender
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
When to pick Crystal
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Defender
Pleasant
Only in Crystal
WoodyFloralGreenFruitySpicyCinnamonNutmegBlack currant
Property
| Property | Defender | Crystal |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 3.3–6% | 2.8–6% |
| Beta acid | 1.1–2.5% | 4.5–8.5% |
| Co-humulone | 23–32% | 20–26% |
| Total oil | 0.28–0.98 mL | 0.8–2.3 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–32% | 30–55% |
| Humulene | 34–36% | 20–30% |
| Caryophyllene | 13–15% | 5–12% |
| Farnesene | 3–4% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Aroma |
Hersbrucker
Strisselspalt