FlyervsChallenger

Flyer and Challenger are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Flyer

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8.3–14.5%

Beta acid

4.1–6%

Total oil

-

United Kingdom

Challenger

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

6.5–9%

Beta acid

3–4.5%

Total oil

1–1.7 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Flyer

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Challenger

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Flyer

SpicyCitrusLicoriceResinCaramel

Only in Challenger

CedarGreenFruity

Property

PropertyFlyerChallenger
Alpha acid8.3–14.5%6.5–9%
Beta acid4.1–6%3–4.5%
Co-humulone26–35%20–25%
Total oil-1–1.7 mL
Myrcene17–25%30–42%
Humulene22–23%24–26%
Caryophyllene0–1%9–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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