ChallengervsUltra
Challenger (dual purpose) and Ultra (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
Ultra
Alpha acid
3–9.7%
Beta acid
3.6–5%
Total oil
0.8–1.5 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Challenger
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
When to pick Ultra
- 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 Ultra
MildPleasantFloral
Property
| Property | Challenger | Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 6.5–9% | 3–9.7% |
| Beta acid | 3–4.5% | 3.6–5% |
| Co-humulone | 20–25% | 25–35% |
| Total oil | 1–1.7 mL | 0.8–1.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–42% | 50–60% |
| Humulene | 24–26% | 10–15% |
| Caryophyllene | 9–10% | 6–9% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |