TriplePearlvsChallenger

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

TriplePearl

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

10–11.2%

Beta acid

3.3–4.2%

Total oil

0.8–1.8 mL

United States

Challenger

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

6.5–9%

Beta acid

3–4.5%

Total oil

1–1.7 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick TriplePearl

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • 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

Cedar

Only in TriplePearl

OrangeCitrusZestMelonResinSpicyBlack currantSandalwoodFloral

Only in Challenger

GreenFruity

Property

PropertyTriplePearlChallenger
Alpha acid10–11.2%6.5–9%
Beta acid3.3–4.2%3–4.5%
Co-humulone21–55%20–25%
Total oil0.8–1.8 mL1–1.7 mL
Myrcene39–55%30–42%
Humulene7–11%24–26%
Caryophyllene3–5%9–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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