El DoradovsCrystal

El Dorado (dual purpose) and Crystal (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

El Dorado

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

13–17%

Beta acid

6.4–8%

Total oil

2.5–3.3 mL

United States

Crystal

Aroma

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 El Dorado

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Crystal

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Fruity

Only in El Dorado

TropicalPearWatermelonCandyStone fruit

Only in Crystal

WoodyFloralGreenSpicyCinnamonNutmegBlack currant

Property

PropertyEl DoradoCrystal
Alpha acid13–17%2.8–6%
Beta acid6.4–8%4.5–8.5%
Co-humulone28–33%20–26%
Total oil2.5–3.3 mL0.8–2.3 mL
Myrcene55–60%30–55%
Humulene10–15%20–30%
Caryophyllene6–8%5–12%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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