VanguardvsCrystal

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

Vanguard

Aroma

Alpha acid

4–6.5%

Beta acid

5.5–7%

Total oil

0.4–1 mL

United States

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 Vanguard

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
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Woody

Only in Vanguard

TobaccoPleasantGrassyCedar

Only in Crystal

FloralGreenFruitySpicyCinnamonNutmegBlack currant

Property

PropertyVanguardCrystal
Alpha acid4–6.5%2.8–6%
Beta acid5.5–7%4.5–8.5%
Co-humulone14–20%20–26%
Total oil0.4–1 mL0.8–2.3 mL
Myrcene5–15%30–55%
Humulene49–55%20–30%
Caryophyllene13–17%5–12%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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