Belma
Alpha acid
8.5–12.1%
Beta acid
4–8%
Total oil
1–2.5 mL
United States
Pioneer
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
| Property | Belma | Pioneer |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 8.5–12.1% | 8–10.5% |
| Beta acid | 4–8% | 3.5–4.5% |
| Co-humulone | - | 36–40% |
| Total oil | 1–2.5 mL | 1–1.8 mL |
| Myrcene | 65–68% | 34–36% |
| Humulene | - | 18–25% |
| Caryophyllene | - | - |
| Farnesene | - | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |