ChallengervsFuggle
Challenger (dual purpose) and Fuggle (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
Fuggle
Alpha acid
2.4–6.1%
Beta acid
2.1–3.5%
Total oil
0.44–1 mL
United Kingdom
Key differences
When to pick Challenger
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
When to pick Fuggle
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Challenger
CedarGreenFruity
Only in Fuggle
WoodyGrassyMintMild
Property
| Property | Challenger | Fuggle |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 6.5–9% | 2.4–6.1% |
| Beta acid | 3–4.5% | 2.1–3.5% |
| Co-humulone | 20–25% | 25–32% |
| Total oil | 1–1.7 mL | 0.44–1 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–42% | 15–25% |
| Humulene | 24–26% | 30–40% |
| Caryophyllene | 9–10% | 11–15% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 5–8% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |
Northdown
Styrian Golding