Waimea
Alpha acid
14.5–19%
Beta acid
7–9%
Total oil
1.8–2.3 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 Waimea
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- 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 Waimea
PineCitrusMandarinHerbalTangerine
Only in Crystal
WoodyFloralGreenFruitySpicyCinnamonNutmegBlack currant
Property
| Property | Waimea | Crystal |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 14.5–19% | 2.8–6% |
| Beta acid | 7–9% | 4.5–8.5% |
| Co-humulone | 22–24% | 20–26% |
| Total oil | 1.8–2.3 mL | 0.8–2.3 mL |
| Myrcene | 59–61% | 30–55% |
| Humulene | 9–10% | 20–30% |
| Caryophyllene | 2–3% | 5–12% |
| Farnesene | 4–6% | 0–1% |
| Origin | New Zealand | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |
Hersbrucker