PilotvsFuggle

Pilot (bittering) and Fuggle (aroma) 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

Fuggle

Aroma

Alpha acid

2.4–6.1%

Beta acid

2.1–3.5%

Total oil

0.44–1 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Pilot

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Fuggle

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Pilot

LemonSpicyMarmalade

Only in Fuggle

WoodyGrassyMintMild

Property

PropertyPilotFuggle
Alpha acid8–11.5%2.4–6.1%
Beta acid3.3–5%2.1–3.5%
Co-humulone28–37%25–32%
Total oil0.8–1.5 mL0.44–1 mL
Myrcene35–40%15–25%
Humulene3–6%30–40%
Caryophyllene-11–15%
Farnesene0–1%5–8%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited Kingdom
PurposeBitteringAroma

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