DeltavsPilot

Delta (aroma) and Pilot (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Delta

Aroma

Alpha acid

5.5–7%

Beta acid

5.5–7%

Total oil

0.5–1.1 mL

United States

Pilot

Bittering

Alpha acid

8–11.5%

Beta acid

3.3–5%

Total oil

0.8–1.5 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Delta

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Pilot

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Spicy

Only in Delta

CitrusMelon

Only in Pilot

LemonMarmalade

Property

PropertyDeltaPilot
Alpha acid5.5–7%8–11.5%
Beta acid5.5–7%3.3–5%
Co-humulone22–24%28–37%
Total oil0.5–1.1 mL0.8–1.5 mL
Myrcene25–40%35–40%
Humulene25–35%3–6%
Caryophyllene9–15%-
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeAromaBittering

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