NectaronvsCrystal

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

Nectaron

Aroma

Alpha acid

9.5–12%

Beta acid

4.5–5%

Total oil

1–1.7 mL

New Zealand

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 Nectaron

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

When to pick Crystal

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Nectaron

TropicalCitrusPineapplePassion fruitPeachGrapefruitNectar

Only in Crystal

WoodyFloralGreenFruitySpicyCinnamonNutmegBlack currant

Property

PropertyNectaronCrystal
Alpha acid9.5–12%2.8–6%
Beta acid4.5–5%4.5–8.5%
Co-humulone26–28%20–26%
Total oil1–1.7 mL0.8–2.3 mL
Myrcene59–65%30–55%
Humulene10–20%20–30%
Caryophyllene4–5%5–12%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginNew ZealandUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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