50g Challenger Hop Pellets
Challenger is an English hop variety that was first released in 1972. It’s a dual-purpose hop that’s often used for both bittering and aroma, and is known for its earthy and spicy character.
Alpha Acid: 8%
Crop Year: 2022
Origin: UK
Description:
Challenger hops are a versatile and popular hop variety that’s widely used in the brewing industry. They have a unique flavor profile that can be used in a wide range of beer styles.
Flavour Profile:
Challenger hops have a complex flavor profile that’s dominated by earthy and spicy notes, with hints of herbal and floral character. They can add a bold and slightly bitter character to beers, and are well-suited to traditional English-style ales and other styles that require a hop character that’s not too overpowering.
Aroma Profile:
Challenger hops have a moderate aroma that’s dominated by earthy and spicy notes, with hints of herbal and floral character. The aroma of Challenger hops is not as strong as some other hop varieties, but it can still be an important component of a beer’s overall character.
Beer Style Suggestions:
Challenger hops are particularly well-suited to traditional English-style ales, such as bitters, porters, and stouts. They can also be used in other styles like Belgian-style ales and even some American-style IPAs, although they may need to be used in combination with other hop varieties to achieve the desired flavor profile.
Hop Substitutes:
While there are no direct substitutes for Challenger hops, there are several other hop varieties that can be used in their place. Some good options include Fuggle, East Kent Golding, and Willamette hops, all of which have similar earthy and spicy notes. Progress and Target hops can also be used as substitutes in some cases, although they have a slightly different flavor profile. Ultimately, the best substitute for Challenger hops will depend on the specific recipe and the desired flavor profile.
Challenger English Bitter
This English Bitter showcases the traditional Challenger hop, known for its earthy and spicy characteristics. The malt bill provides a balanced sweetness, while the hop bitterness and flavor are pronounced but not overpowering. A classic British-style beer that is both flavorful and easy-drinking.
STATISTICS
Estimated ABV: 4.5%
Final Volume: 23L
Efficiency: 70%
Original Gravity: 1.044
Final Gravity: 1.010
IBU: 30
Colour: 12 SRM
GRAIN – MASH @ 67c
4.5 kg Maris Otter Pale Malt
0.25 kg Crystal 60L Malt
0.1 kg Special B Malt
HOPS
30 g Challenger hops at 60 minutes
15 g Challenger hops at 10 minutes
15 g Challenger hops at flameout
30 g Challenger hops for dry hopping
YEAST – FERMENT @ 20c
Fermentis SafAle S-04 or Lallemand Nottingham Ale Yeast.
Note: This recipe assumes a batch size of 23L and a brewhouse efficiency of 70%. Adjust the amount of hops and grains accordingly if your equipment or efficiency is different.
