BelmavsPioneer

Belma and Pioneer are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Belma

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8.5–12.1%

Beta acid

4–8%

Total oil

1–2.5 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 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

When to pick Pioneer

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Grapefruit

Only in Belma

OrangeMelonStrawberryPineappleBerryCitrusTropical

Only in Pioneer

CedarHerbalLemonCrispClean

Property

PropertyBelmaPioneer
Alpha acid8.5–12.1%8–10.5%
Beta acid4–8%3.5–4.5%
Co-humulone-36–40%
Total oil1–2.5 mL1–1.8 mL
Myrcene65–68%34–36%
Humulene-18–25%
Caryophyllene--
Farnesene-0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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