Defender
Alpha acid
3.3–6%
Beta acid
1.1–2.5%
Total oil
0.28–0.98 mL
United Kingdom
Pekko
Alpha acid
13–16%
Beta acid
3.5–5%
Total oil
1–3 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Defender
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
When to pick Pekko
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Pleasant
Only in Defender
-
Only in Pekko
FloralCitrusMintHerbalMellowPineappleThymeCucumberSageLemon
Property
| Property | Defender | Pekko |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 3.3–6% | 13–16% |
| Beta acid | 1.1–2.5% | 3.5–5% |
| Co-humulone | 23–32% | 27–30% |
| Total oil | 0.28–0.98 mL | 1–3 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–32% | 20–30% |
| Humulene | 34–36% | 20–28% |
| Caryophyllene | 13–15% | 15–20% |
| Farnesene | 3–4% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Dual purpose |