PilotvsChinook

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

Pilot

Bittering

Alpha acid

8–11.5%

Beta acid

3.3–5%

Total oil

0.8–1.5 mL

United Kingdom

Chinook

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11.5–15%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

1–2.7 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Pilot

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Chinook

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Spicy

Only in Pilot

LemonMarmalade

Only in Chinook

PineResinGrapefruitDankCannabis

Property

PropertyPilotChinook
Alpha acid8–11.5%11.5–15%
Beta acid3.3–5%3–4%
Co-humulone28–37%27–35%
Total oil0.8–1.5 mL1–2.7 mL
Myrcene35–40%20–30%
Humulene3–6%18–24%
Caryophyllene-9–11%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

Related comparisons