Vic SecretvsCrystal
Vic Secret (dual purpose) and Crystal (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Vic Secret
Alpha acid
14–21.8%
Beta acid
5.7–8.7%
Total oil
1.9–2.8 mL
Australia
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 Vic Secret
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- 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 Vic Secret
TropicalPineapplePinePassion fruitHerbalEarthy
Only in Crystal
WoodyFloralGreenFruitySpicyCinnamonNutmegBlack currant
Property
| Property | Vic Secret | Crystal |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 14–21.8% | 2.8–6% |
| Beta acid | 5.7–8.7% | 4.5–8.5% |
| Co-humulone | 51–57% | 20–26% |
| Total oil | 1.9–2.8 mL | 0.8–2.3 mL |
| Myrcene | 31–46% | 30–55% |
| Humulene | 9–21% | 20–30% |
| Caryophyllene | 9–15% | 5–12% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Australia | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |