PilotvsCTZ

Pilot (bittering) and CTZ (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

CTZ

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

14.5–17%

Beta acid

4.5–5.5%

Total oil

2.5–4.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Pilot

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick CTZ

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • 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 Pilot

LemonSpicyMarmalade

Only in CTZ

Black currantLicoriceCurryCitrusCannabisDank

Property

PropertyPilotCTZ
Alpha acid8–11.5%14.5–17%
Beta acid3.3–5%4.5–5.5%
Co-humulone28–37%28–35%
Total oil0.8–1.5 mL2.5–4.5 mL
Myrcene35–40%45–55%
Humulene3–6%9–14%
Caryophyllene-6–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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