Saaz (US)
Alpha acid
3–4.5%
Beta acid
3–4.5%
Total oil
0.5–1 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 Saaz (US)
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
When to pick Crystal
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Saaz (US)
SlightlyEarthyNoble
Only in Crystal
WoodyFloralGreenFruitySpicyCinnamonNutmegBlack currant
Property
| Property | Saaz (US) | Crystal |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 3–4.5% | 2.8–6% |
| Beta acid | 3–4.5% | 4.5–8.5% |
| Co-humulone | 24–28% | 20–26% |
| Total oil | 0.5–1 mL | 0.8–2.3 mL |
| Myrcene | 25–30% | 30–55% |
| Humulene | 35–40% | 20–30% |
| Caryophyllene | 9–11% | 5–12% |
| Farnesene | 9–13% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Aroma |
Hersbrucker
Sorachi Ace