WaimeavsChallenger
Waimea and Challenger are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Waimea
Alpha acid
14.5–19%
Beta acid
7–9%
Total oil
1.8–2.3 mL
New Zealand
Challenger
Alpha acid
6.5–9%
Beta acid
3–4.5%
Total oil
1–1.7 mL
United Kingdom
Key differences
When to pick Waimea
- 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
- 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
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Waimea
PineCitrusMandarinHerbalTangerine
Only in Challenger
CedarGreenFruity
Property
| Property | Waimea | Challenger |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 14.5–19% | 6.5–9% |
| Beta acid | 7–9% | 3–4.5% |
| Co-humulone | 22–24% | 20–25% |
| Total oil | 1.8–2.3 mL | 1–1.7 mL |
| Myrcene | 59–61% | 30–42% |
| Humulene | 9–10% | 24–26% |
| Caryophyllene | 2–3% | 9–10% |
| Farnesene | 4–6% | 0–1% |
| Origin | New Zealand | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |
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