BergamotvsCluster

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

Bergamot

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8–10.7%

Beta acid

6–8.9%

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 Bergamot

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • 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

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Bergamot

OrangeMangoDankCherryZestLemongrassLimeJuniperTropicalPepper

Only in Cluster

EarthySweet

Property

PropertyBergamotCluster
Alpha acid8–10.7%5.5–9%
Beta acid6–8.9%4.5–6%
Co-humulone39–40%33–43%
Total oil-0.4–1 mL
Myrcene44–45%38–46%
Humulene14–15%15–20%
Caryophyllene9–10%8–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

Related comparisons