ChallengervsHersbrucker
Challenger (dual purpose) and Hersbrucker (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
Hersbrucker
Alpha acid
1.5–5%
Beta acid
2.5–6%
Total oil
0.5–1.3 mL
Germany
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 Hersbrucker
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Challenger
CedarGreenFruity
Only in Hersbrucker
NobleHayOrangeTobacco
Property
| Property | Challenger | Hersbrucker |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 6.5–9% | 1.5–5% |
| Beta acid | 3–4.5% | 2.5–6% |
| Co-humulone | 20–25% | 17–25% |
| Total oil | 1–1.7 mL | 0.5–1.3 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–42% | 15–30% |
| Humulene | 24–26% | 20–30% |
| Caryophyllene | 9–10% | 8–13% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | Germany |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |
Liberty