ClustervsCentennial

Cluster and Centennial 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

Centennial

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

7–12%

Beta acid

3.5–5.5%

Total oil

1–3 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 Centennial

  • 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

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Cluster

EarthySweet

Only in Centennial

PineCitrusGrapefruitTangerine

Property

PropertyClusterCentennial
Alpha acid5.5–9%7–12%
Beta acid4.5–6%3.5–5.5%
Co-humulone33–43%23–30%
Total oil0.4–1 mL1–3 mL
Myrcene38–46%55–65%
Humulene15–20%10–20%
Caryophyllene8–10%5–7%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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