EroicavsPioneer

Eroica (bittering) and Pioneer (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Eroica

Bittering

Alpha acid

7.3–14.9%

Beta acid

3–5.3%

Total oil

0.8–1.3 mL

United States

Pioneer

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8–10.5%

Beta acid

3.5–4.5%

Total oil

1–1.8 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Eroica

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

When to pick Pioneer

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Eroica

-

Only in Pioneer

CedarGrapefruitHerbalLemonGrapefruitCrispClean

Property

PropertyEroicaPioneer
Alpha acid7.3–14.9%8–10.5%
Beta acid3–5.3%3.5–4.5%
Co-humulone40%36–40%
Total oil0.8–1.3 mL1–1.8 mL
Myrcene55–65%34–36%
Humulene0–1%18–25%
Caryophyllene7–13%-
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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