PioneervsTomahawk

Pioneer and Tomahawk 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

Tomahawk

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

15–17.5%

Beta acid

4.5–6%

Total oil

2.5–4.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Pioneer

  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Tomahawk

  • 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

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Pioneer

CedarGrapefruitHerbalLemonGrapefruitCrispClean

Only in Tomahawk

CitrusBlack currantLicoriceCurryOnion

Property

PropertyPioneerTomahawk
Alpha acid8–10.5%15–17.5%
Beta acid3.5–4.5%4.5–6%
Co-humulone36–40%28–35%
Total oil1–1.8 mL2.5–4.5 mL
Myrcene34–36%45–55%
Humulene18–25%9–14%
Caryophyllene-6–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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