ChallengervsEroica
Challenger (dual purpose) and Eroica (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
Eroica
Alpha acid
7.3–14.9%
Beta acid
3–5.3%
Total oil
0.8–1.3 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Challenger
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Eroica
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Challenger
CedarGreenFruity
Only in Eroica
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Property
| Property | Challenger | Eroica |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 6.5–9% | 7.3–14.9% |
| Beta acid | 3–4.5% | 3–5.3% |
| Co-humulone | 20–25% | 40% |
| Total oil | 1–1.7 mL | 0.8–1.3 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–42% | 55–65% |
| Humulene | 24–26% | 0–1% |
| Caryophyllene | 9–10% | 7–13% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |