ChinookvsCluster

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

Chinook

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11.5–15%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

1–2.7 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 Chinook

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Cluster

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Chinook

PineResinGrapefruitSpicyDankCannabis

Only in Cluster

FloralEarthySweet

Property

PropertyChinookCluster
Alpha acid11.5–15%5.5–9%
Beta acid3–4%4.5–6%
Co-humulone27–35%33–43%
Total oil1–2.7 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene20–30%38–46%
Humulene18–24%15–20%
Caryophyllene9–11%8–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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