Barbe RougevsChallenger
Barbe Rouge (aroma) and Challenger (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Barbe Rouge
Alpha acid
3.8–10%
Beta acid
3.3–4.6%
Total oil
1.1–3 mL
France
Challenger
Alpha acid
6.5–9%
Beta acid
3–4.5%
Total oil
1–1.7 mL
United Kingdom
Key differences
When to pick Barbe Rouge
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Challenger
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Barbe Rouge
CitrusKumquatOrangeLimeRedcurrantStrawberryRaspberryFloralBerryHerbal
Only in Challenger
CedarGreenFruity
Property
| Property | Barbe Rouge | Challenger |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 3.8–10% | 6.5–9% |
| Beta acid | 3.3–4.6% | 3–4.5% |
| Co-humulone | 24–28% | 20–25% |
| Total oil | 1.1–3 mL | 1–1.7 mL |
| Myrcene | 35–60% | 30–42% |
| Humulene | 15–25% | 24–26% |
| Caryophyllene | 2–4% | 9–10% |
| Farnesene | 0–4% | 0–1% |
| Origin | France | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Aroma | Dual purpose |
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