Merkur
Alpha acid
12–16.2%
Beta acid
4.5–7.3%
Total oil
2–3 mL
Germany
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 Merkur
- 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
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Merkur
SugarPineappleMintCitrusEarthy
Only in Crystal
WoodyFloralGreenFruitySpicyCinnamonNutmegBlack currant
Property
| Property | Merkur | Crystal |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12–16.2% | 2.8–6% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–7.3% | 4.5–8.5% |
| Co-humulone | 17–20% | 20–26% |
| Total oil | 2–3 mL | 0.8–2.3 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–50% | 30–55% |
| Humulene | 28–32% | 20–30% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–10% | 5–12% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Germany | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |
Hallertau Taurus