McKenzievsCrystal

McKenzie and Crystal are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

McKenzie

Aroma

Alpha acid

9–11%

Beta acid

8–9%

Total oil

2–3 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 McKenzie

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

When to pick Crystal

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in McKenzie

GrapefruitLemonNectarineMelonPineThymeStone fruitDank

Only in Crystal

WoodyGreenFruitySpicyCinnamonNutmegBlack currant

Property

PropertyMcKenzieCrystal
Alpha acid9–11%2.8–6%
Beta acid8–9%4.5–8.5%
Co-humulone-20–26%
Total oil2–3 mL0.8–2.3 mL
Myrcene-30–55%
Humulene-20–30%
Caryophyllene-5–12%
Farnesene-0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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