SticklebractvsCrystal
Sticklebract (dual purpose) and Crystal (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Sticklebract
Alpha acid
12–15%
Beta acid
6–8.5%
Total oil
0.75–1.8 mL
New Zealand
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 Sticklebract
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- 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 Sticklebract
PineCitrus
Only in Crystal
WoodyFloralGreenFruitySpicyCinnamonNutmegBlack currant
Property
| Property | Sticklebract | Crystal |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12–15% | 2.8–6% |
| Beta acid | 6–8.5% | 4.5–8.5% |
| Co-humulone | 35–45% | 20–26% |
| Total oil | 0.75–1.8 mL | 0.8–2.3 mL |
| Myrcene | 14–64% | 30–55% |
| Humulene | 7–26% | 20–30% |
| Caryophyllene | 3–13% | 5–12% |
| Farnesene | 4–7% | 0–1% |
| Origin | New Zealand | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |
Hersbrucker