ChallengervsOmega
Challenger (dual purpose) and Omega (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
Omega
Alpha acid
9–10%
Beta acid
3–4%
Total oil
-
United Kingdom
Key differences
When to pick Challenger
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Omega
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Challenger
CedarGreenFruity
Only in Omega
-
Property
| Property | Challenger | Omega |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 6.5–9% | 9–10% |
| Beta acid | 3–4.5% | 3–4% |
| Co-humulone | 20–25% | 29% |
| Total oil | 1–1.7 mL | - |
| Myrcene | 30–42% | 52–54% |
| Humulene | 24–26% | 16–18% |
| Caryophyllene | 9–10% | 4–6% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |