BelmavsChallenger
Belma and Challenger are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Belma
Alpha acid
8.5–12.1%
Beta acid
4–8%
Total oil
1–2.5 mL
United States
Challenger
Alpha acid
6.5–9%
Beta acid
3–4.5%
Total oil
1–1.7 mL
United Kingdom
Key differences
When to pick Belma
- 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
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Challenger
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Belma
OrangeMelonStrawberryPineappleGrapefruitBerryCitrusTropical
Only in Challenger
CedarGreenFruity
Property
| Property | Belma | Challenger |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 8.5–12.1% | 6.5–9% |
| Beta acid | 4–8% | 3–4.5% |
| Co-humulone | - | 20–25% |
| Total oil | 1–2.5 mL | 1–1.7 mL |
| Myrcene | 65–68% | 30–42% |
| Humulene | - | 24–26% |
| Caryophyllene | - | 9–10% |
| Farnesene | - | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |
Huell Melon
Pacific Gem