PhoenixvsChallenger
Phoenix and Challenger are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Phoenix
Alpha acid
8–13.5%
Beta acid
3.3–5.5%
Total oil
1.2–3 mL
United Kingdom
Challenger
Alpha acid
6.5–9%
Beta acid
3–4.5%
Total oil
1–1.7 mL
United Kingdom
Key differences
When to pick Phoenix
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- 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 Phoenix
MolassesChocolateSpicyFloralPine
Only in Challenger
CedarGreenFruity
Property
| Property | Phoenix | Challenger |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 8–13.5% | 6.5–9% |
| Beta acid | 3.3–5.5% | 3–4.5% |
| Co-humulone | 24–33% | 20–25% |
| Total oil | 1.2–3 mL | 1–1.7 mL |
| Myrcene | 23–25% | 30–42% |
| Humulene | 29–31% | 24–26% |
| Caryophyllene | 10–12% | 9–10% |
| Farnesene | 1–2% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |
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