ApollovsCluster

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

Apollo

Bittering

Alpha acid

15–20.5%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

0.8–2.5 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 Apollo

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • 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 Apollo

CitrusGrapefruitOrangePineResinCannabisLimeLemonDank

Only in Cluster

FloralEarthySweet

Property

PropertyApolloCluster
Alpha acid15–20.5%5.5–9%
Beta acid5.5–8%4.5–6%
Co-humulone23–28%33–43%
Total oil0.8–2.5 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene30–50%38–46%
Humulene20–35%15–20%
Caryophyllene14–20%8–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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