Golding
Alpha acid
4–6%
Beta acid
2–3%
Total oil
0.4–1 mL
United States
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 Golding
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
Shared aromas
Floral
Only in Golding
DelicateSweet
Only in Crystal
WoodyGreenFruitySpicyCinnamonNutmegBlack currant
Property
| Property | Golding | Crystal |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 4–6% | 2.8–6% |
| Beta acid | 2–3% | 4.5–8.5% |
| Co-humulone | 20% | 20–26% |
| Total oil | 0.4–1 mL | 0.8–2.3 mL |
| Myrcene | 25–35% | 30–55% |
| Humulene | 35–45% | 20–30% |
| Caryophyllene | 13–16% | 5–12% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Aroma |
Fuggle
Hersbrucker