Bramling CrossvsPilgrim
Bramling Cross and Pilgrim are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Bramling Cross
Alpha acid
5–8%
Beta acid
2.3–3.2%
Total oil
0.7–1.2 mL
United Kingdom
Pilgrim
Alpha acid
9–13%
Beta acid
4.2–5.5%
Total oil
1–1.8 mL
United Kingdom
Key differences
When to pick Bramling Cross
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
When to pick Pilgrim
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
LemonSpicy
Only in Bramling Cross
Black currantLoganberryVanilla
Only in Pilgrim
FruityGrapefruitCitrusPearBerry
Property
| Property | Bramling Cross | Pilgrim |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5–8% | 9–13% |
| Beta acid | 2.3–3.2% | 4.2–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 33–35% | 36–38% |
| Total oil | 0.7–1.2 mL | 1–1.8 mL |
| Myrcene | 35–37% | 30–35% |
| Humulene | 29–31% | 21–25% |
| Caryophyllene | 14–16% | - |
| Farnesene | 0–2% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |
Bullion