ClustervsCascade

Cluster and Cascade 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

Cascade

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

4.5–9%

Beta acid

4.8–7.5%

Total oil

0.7–2.5 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 Cascade

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Cluster

EarthySweet

Only in Cascade

GrapefruitSpicyCitrusPine

Property

PropertyClusterCascade
Alpha acid5.5–9%4.5–9%
Beta acid4.5–6%4.8–7.5%
Co-humulone33–43%30–40%
Total oil0.4–1 mL0.7–2.5 mL
Myrcene38–46%45–60%
Humulene15–20%8–20%
Caryophyllene8–10%3–9%
Farnesene0–1%3–9%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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