ChallengervsEnigma
Challenger (dual purpose) and Enigma (aroma) 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
Enigma
Alpha acid
13.5–19.4%
Beta acid
4.5–7.1%
Total oil
1.8–3 mL
Australia
Key differences
When to pick Challenger
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
When to pick Enigma
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Challenger
CedarGreenFruity
Only in Enigma
TropicalBerryStone fruitRaspberryRedcurrantWhite
Property
| Property | Challenger | Enigma |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 6.5–9% | 13.5–19.4% |
| Beta acid | 3–4.5% | 4.5–7.1% |
| Co-humulone | 20–25% | 37–43% |
| Total oil | 1–1.7 mL | 1.8–3 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–42% | 23–30% |
| Humulene | 24–26% | 12–19% |
| Caryophyllene | 9–10% | 6–8% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 9–12% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | Australia |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |
Hallertau Blanc
Nelson Sauvin
Northdown