BelmavsCluster

Belma and Cluster are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Belma

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8.5–12.1%

Beta acid

4–8%

Total oil

1–2.5 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 Belma

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Cluster

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Belma

OrangeMelonStrawberryPineappleGrapefruitBerryCitrusTropical

Only in Cluster

FloralEarthySweet

Property

PropertyBelmaCluster
Alpha acid8.5–12.1%5.5–9%
Beta acid4–8%4.5–6%
Co-humulone-33–43%
Total oil1–2.5 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene65–68%38–46%
Humulene-15–20%
Caryophyllene-8–10%
Farnesene-0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

Related comparisons