ChallengervsSovereign
Challenger (dual purpose) and Sovereign (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
Sovereign
Alpha acid
4.5–6.5%
Beta acid
2.1–3.1%
Total oil
0.6–1 mL
United Kingdom
Key differences
When to pick Challenger
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
When to pick Sovereign
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Fruity
Only in Challenger
CedarGreen
Only in Sovereign
MintFloralGrassyHerbalPear
Property
| Property | Challenger | Sovereign |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 6.5–9% | 4.5–6.5% |
| Beta acid | 3–4.5% | 2.1–3.1% |
| Co-humulone | 20–25% | 26–30% |
| Total oil | 1–1.7 mL | 0.6–1 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–42% | 20–31% |
| Humulene | 24–26% | 20–27% |
| Caryophyllene | 9–10% | 7–9% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 3–4% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |
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