CHALLENGER, Pellets T90

What is Challenger?
Challenger was introduced in 1972 and has since become a cornerstone of British brewing. Known for its consistent quality and well-rounded profile, it is a go-to choice for brewers seeking balance and character in their beer.

How to Use Challenger:
Challenger’s balanced alpha acid content makes it effective for providing smooth bitterness. Additionally, its essential oil composition imparts a rich aroma when used late in the brewing process or as a dry hop. This flexibility allows Challenger to fit seamlessly into various brewing applications.

• Bitter Hop: Challenger’s moderate bitterness contributes a clean and refined backbone to beers, particularly British ales.
• Aroma Hop: With its fruity and floral profile accented by hints of spice and earthiness, Challenger elevates the aroma of any brew.
• Dry Hop: When dry-hopped, Challenger delivers a more concentrated bouquet of its signature fruity and floral qualities, ideal for adding depth to pale ales and bitters.

Flavour Profile:
Challenger boasts a distinctive blend of fresh fruit, delicate florals, and subtle spice. It is versatile enough to complement a wide range of beer styles.

Combining with Other Hops:
Challenger pairs beautifully with other British hops like East Kent Goldings or Fuggles, enhancing traditional profiles, but also complements newer varieties for innovative beer recipes.

Benefits of Challenger:
Challenger offers brewers a robust yet balanced tool to craft beers with depth and complexity. Its dual-purpose nature provides consistency and adaptability, making it a reliable choice for both bittering and aroma.

Substituting:

• Substituting Challenger: East Kent Goldings or Progress can be used as substitutes, though the exact flavour complexity may vary.
• Challenger as a substitute: Challenger works well as a substitute for Fuggles or Northern Brewer, especially when a stronger bittering backbone is desired.

History:
Challenger originated in the United Kingdom as a product of the Wye College breeding programme. Since its release in 1972, it has become a quintessential British hop for traditional brewing styles.

Key Features:

Origin:
United Kingdom

FLAVOUR PROFILE:

• Fruity
• Floral
• Spicy
• Earthy

HOP STATISTICS:

ACID COMPONENTS

Alpha Acids 5 – 9% w/w

Beta Acids 3.2 – 5% w/w

Cohumulone 20 – 30% of alpha acids

OIL COMPONENTS

Total Oil 1.0 – 1.5 mls/100 grams

Caryophyllene 8-12% of whole oil

Farnesene 1-3% of whole oil

Humulene 25-32% of whole oil

Myrcene 20-42% of total oil