AmarillovsCluster

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

Amarillo

Aroma

Alpha acid

7–11%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

1–2.3 mL

United States

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 Amarillo

  • 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
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Cluster

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Amarillo

SpicyTropicalCitrusOrangeLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Only in Cluster

EarthySweet

Property

PropertyAmarilloCluster
Alpha acid7–11%5.5–9%
Beta acid5.5–8%4.5–6%
Co-humulone21–24%33–43%
Total oil1–2.3 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene40–70%38–46%
Humulene19–24%15–20%
Caryophyllene7–10%8–10%
Farnesene6–9%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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