AdmiralvsCluster

Admiral (bittering) and Cluster (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Admiral

Bittering

Alpha acid

13–16.2%

Beta acid

4.8–6.1%

Total oil

1–1.7 mL

United Kingdom

Cluster

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5.5–9%

Beta acid

4.5–6%

Total oil

0.4–1 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Admiral

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Cluster

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Admiral

OrangeTeaFreshPineCitrusResinHerbal

Only in Cluster

FloralEarthySweet

Property

PropertyAdmiralCluster
Alpha acid13–16.2%5.5–9%
Beta acid4.8–6.1%4.5–6%
Co-humulone37–45%33–43%
Total oil1–1.7 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene39–48%38–46%
Humulene23–26%15–20%
Caryophyllene6–8%8–10%
Farnesene0–2%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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