BannervsCluster

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

Banner

Bittering

Alpha acid

8.4–13.1%

Beta acid

5.3–8%

Total oil

-

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 Banner

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Cluster

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Banner

-

Only in Cluster

FloralEarthySweet

Property

PropertyBannerCluster
Alpha acid8.4–13.1%5.5–9%
Beta acid5.3–8%4.5–6%
Co-humulone34%33–43%
Total oil-0.4–1 mL
Myrcene-38–46%
Humulene-15–20%
Caryophyllene-8–10%
Farnesene-0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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