ClustervsBelma

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

Cluster

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5.5–9%

Beta acid

4.5–6%

Total oil

0.4–1 mL

United States

Belma

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8.5–12.1%

Beta acid

4–8%

Total oil

1–2.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Cluster

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

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

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Cluster

FloralEarthySweet

Only in Belma

OrangeMelonStrawberryPineappleGrapefruitBerryCitrusTropical

Property

PropertyClusterBelma
Alpha acid5.5–9%8.5–12.1%
Beta acid4.5–6%4–8%
Co-humulone33–43%-
Total oil0.4–1 mL1–2.5 mL
Myrcene38–46%65–68%
Humulene15–20%-
Caryophyllene8–10%-
Farnesene0–1%-
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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