Cluster
Alpha acid
5.5–9%
Beta acid
4.5–6%
Total oil
0.4–1 mL
United States
Chelan
Alpha acid
12–15%
Beta acid
8.5–10%
Total oil
1.5–1.9 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Cluster
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
When to pick Chelan
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Floral
Only in Cluster
EarthySweet
Only in Chelan
CitrusFruityMild
Property
| Property | Cluster | Chelan |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5.5–9% | 12–15% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–6% | 8.5–10% |
| Co-humulone | 33–43% | 33–35% |
| Total oil | 0.4–1 mL | 1.5–1.9 mL |
| Myrcene | 38–46% | 45–55% |
| Humulene | 15–20% | 12–15% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–10% | 9–12% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |