ChallengervsCluster
Challenger and Cluster are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Challenger
Alpha acid
6.5–9%
Beta acid
3–4.5%
Total oil
1–1.7 mL
United Kingdom
Cluster
Alpha acid
5.5–9%
Beta acid
4.5–6%
Total oil
0.4–1 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Challenger
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
When to pick Cluster
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Challenger
CedarGreenFruity
Only in Cluster
FloralEarthySweet
Property
| Property | Challenger | Cluster |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 6.5–9% | 5.5–9% |
| Beta acid | 3–4.5% | 4.5–6% |
| Co-humulone | 20–25% | 33–43% |
| Total oil | 1–1.7 mL | 0.4–1 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–42% | 38–46% |
| Humulene | 24–26% | 15–20% |
| Caryophyllene | 9–10% | 8–10% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |