PilotvsBramling Cross
Pilot (bittering) and Bramling Cross (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Pilot
Alpha acid
8–11.5%
Beta acid
3.3–5%
Total oil
0.8–1.5 mL
United Kingdom
Bramling Cross
Alpha acid
5–8%
Beta acid
2.3–3.2%
Total oil
0.7–1.2 mL
United Kingdom
Key differences
When to pick Pilot
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick Bramling Cross
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
LemonSpicy
Only in Pilot
Marmalade
Only in Bramling Cross
Black currantLoganberryVanilla
Property
| Property | Pilot | Bramling Cross |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 8–11.5% | 5–8% |
| Beta acid | 3.3–5% | 2.3–3.2% |
| Co-humulone | 28–37% | 33–35% |
| Total oil | 0.8–1.5 mL | 0.7–1.2 mL |
| Myrcene | 35–40% | 35–37% |
| Humulene | 3–6% | 29–31% |
| Caryophyllene | - | 14–16% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–2% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |
Bullion