ChallengervsPacific Crest
Challenger (dual purpose) and Pacific Crest (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
Pacific Crest
Alpha acid
3.9%
Beta acid
3%
Total oil
-
United States
Key differences
When to pick Challenger
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
When to pick Pacific Crest
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- 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 Pacific Crest
NobleTobaccoEarthyGrassyFloralSpicyHerbalPine
Property
| Property | Challenger | Pacific Crest |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 6.5–9% | 3.9% |
| Beta acid | 3–4.5% | 3% |
| Co-humulone | 20–25% | 27% |
| Total oil | 1–1.7 mL | - |
| Myrcene | 30–42% | 45–55% |
| Humulene | 24–26% | 19–21% |
| Caryophyllene | 9–10% | 6–10% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |