ApollovsPioneer

Apollo (bittering) and Pioneer (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Apollo

Bittering

Alpha acid

15–20.5%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

0.8–2.5 mL

United States

Pioneer

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8–10.5%

Beta acid

3.5–4.5%

Total oil

1–1.8 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Apollo

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Pioneer

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

GrapefruitLemon

Only in Apollo

CitrusOrangePineResinCannabisLimeDank

Only in Pioneer

CedarHerbalCrispClean

Property

PropertyApolloPioneer
Alpha acid15–20.5%8–10.5%
Beta acid5.5–8%3.5–4.5%
Co-humulone23–28%36–40%
Total oil0.8–2.5 mL1–1.8 mL
Myrcene30–50%34–36%
Humulene20–35%18–25%
Caryophyllene14–20%-
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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