Southern DawnvsChallenger
Southern Dawn and Challenger are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Southern Dawn
Alpha acid
11.2–13.5%
Beta acid
4.3–5.9%
Total oil
-
South Africa
Challenger
Alpha acid
6.5–9%
Beta acid
3–4.5%
Total oil
1–1.7 mL
United Kingdom
Key differences
When to pick Southern Dawn
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Challenger
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Fruity
Only in Southern Dawn
QuinceLemongrassGingerChamomileStrawberryCitrusHerbalSpicy
Only in Challenger
CedarGreen
Property
| Property | Southern Dawn | Challenger |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 11.2–13.5% | 6.5–9% |
| Beta acid | 4.3–5.9% | 3–4.5% |
| Co-humulone | 31–33% | 20–25% |
| Total oil | - | 1–1.7 mL |
| Myrcene | 22–45% | 30–42% |
| Humulene | 17–25% | 24–26% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–11% | 9–10% |
| Farnesene | 4–10% | 0–1% |
| Origin | South Africa | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |
Northdown