CalypsovsCluster

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

Calypso

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

12–16%

Beta acid

5–6%

Total oil

1.5–2.5 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 Calypso

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • 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 Calypso

FruityApplePearStone fruitLimeCitrusPeach

Only in Cluster

FloralEarthySweet

Property

PropertyCalypsoCluster
Alpha acid12–16%5.5–9%
Beta acid5–6%4.5–6%
Co-humulone38–42%33–43%
Total oil1.5–2.5 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene30–45%38–46%
Humulene20–35%15–20%
Caryophyllene9–15%8–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

Related comparisons