CTZvsChallenger
CTZ and Challenger are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
CTZ
Alpha acid
14.5–17%
Beta acid
4.5–5.5%
Total oil
2.5–4.5 mL
United States
Challenger
Alpha acid
6.5–9%
Beta acid
3–4.5%
Total oil
1–1.7 mL
United Kingdom
Key differences
When to pick CTZ
- 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
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Challenger
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in CTZ
Black currantLicoriceCurryCitrusCannabisDank
Only in Challenger
CedarGreenFruity
Property
| Property | CTZ | Challenger |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 14.5–17% | 6.5–9% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–5.5% | 3–4.5% |
| Co-humulone | 28–35% | 20–25% |
| Total oil | 2.5–4.5 mL | 1–1.7 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–55% | 30–42% |
| Humulene | 9–14% | 24–26% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–10% | 9–10% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |