ChallengervsBobek
Challenger (dual purpose) and Bobek (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Challenger
Alpha acid
6.5–9%
Beta acid
3–4.5%
Total oil
1–1.7 mL
United Kingdom
Bobek
Alpha acid
3.5–9.3%
Beta acid
4–6.6%
Total oil
0.7–4 mL
Slovenia
Key differences
When to pick Challenger
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
When to pick Bobek
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Challenger
CedarGreenFruity
Only in Bobek
PineFloral
Property
| Property | Challenger | Bobek |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 6.5–9% | 3.5–9.3% |
| Beta acid | 3–4.5% | 4–6.6% |
| Co-humulone | 20–25% | 26–31% |
| Total oil | 1–1.7 mL | 0.7–4 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–42% | 30–45% |
| Humulene | 24–26% | 13–19% |
| Caryophyllene | 9–10% | 4–6% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 4–7% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | Slovenia |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |
Northdown