PioneervsGlacier

Pioneer and Glacier are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Pioneer

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8–10.5%

Beta acid

3.5–4.5%

Total oil

1–1.8 mL

United Kingdom

Glacier

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

3.3–9.7%

Beta acid

5.4–10%

Total oil

0.5–1.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Pioneer

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Glacier

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Cedar

Only in Pioneer

GrapefruitHerbalLemonGrapefruitCrispClean

Only in Glacier

PlumBlackberryWoody

Property

PropertyPioneerGlacier
Alpha acid8–10.5%3.3–9.7%
Beta acid3.5–4.5%5.4–10%
Co-humulone36–40%11–16%
Total oil1–1.8 mL0.5–1.5 mL
Myrcene34–36%35–45%
Humulene18–25%25–35%
Caryophyllene-8–13%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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