Nugget
Alpha acid
9.5–16%
Beta acid
3–5.8%
Total oil
0.9–3.3 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 Nugget
- 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
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Nugget
HerbalCitrusGingerPineappleGeraniumLycheeHerbalEarthyCoconut
Only in Crystal
WoodyFloralGreenFruitySpicyCinnamonNutmegBlack currant
Property
| Property | Nugget | Crystal |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 9.5–16% | 2.8–6% |
| Beta acid | 3–5.8% | 4.5–8.5% |
| Co-humulone | 22–30% | 20–26% |
| Total oil | 0.9–3.3 mL | 0.8–2.3 mL |
| Myrcene | 48–59% | 30–55% |
| Humulene | 12–22% | 20–30% |
| Caryophyllene | 7–10% | 5–12% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |
Hersbrucker