Northern Brewer (US)vsCrystal
Northern Brewer (US) (bittering) and Crystal (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Northern Brewer (US)
Alpha acid
7–10%
Beta acid
3–5.5%
Total oil
1–2 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 Northern Brewer (US)
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick Crystal
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
WoodyBlack currant
Only in Northern Brewer (US)
PineMint
Only in Crystal
FloralGreenFruitySpicyCinnamonNutmeg
Property
| Property | Northern Brewer (US) | Crystal |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 7–10% | 2.8–6% |
| Beta acid | 3–5.5% | 4.5–8.5% |
| Co-humulone | 27–34% | 20–26% |
| Total oil | 1–2 mL | 0.8–2.3 mL |
| Myrcene | 35–45% | 30–55% |
| Humulene | 27–31% | 20–30% |
| Caryophyllene | 11–15% | 5–12% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Aroma |
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