ChallengervsPilgrim
Challenger and Pilgrim are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Challenger
Alpha acid
6.5–9%
Beta acid
3–4.5%
Total oil
1–1.7 mL
United Kingdom
Pilgrim
Alpha acid
9–13%
Beta acid
4.2–5.5%
Total oil
1–1.8 mL
United Kingdom
Key differences
When to pick Challenger
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
When to pick Pilgrim
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Fruity
Only in Challenger
CedarGreen
Only in Pilgrim
SpicyLemonGrapefruitCitrusPearBerry
Property
| Property | Challenger | Pilgrim |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 6.5–9% | 9–13% |
| Beta acid | 3–4.5% | 4.2–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 20–25% | 36–38% |
| Total oil | 1–1.7 mL | 1–1.8 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–42% | 30–35% |
| Humulene | 24–26% | 21–25% |
| Caryophyllene | 9–10% | - |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |
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