ClustervsChinook

Cluster and Chinook 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

Chinook

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11.5–15%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

1–2.7 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Cluster

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

When to pick Chinook

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

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Cluster

FloralEarthySweet

Only in Chinook

PineResinGrapefruitSpicyDankCannabis

Property

PropertyClusterChinook
Alpha acid5.5–9%11.5–15%
Beta acid4.5–6%3–4%
Co-humulone33–43%27–35%
Total oil0.4–1 mL1–2.7 mL
Myrcene38–46%20–30%
Humulene15–20%18–24%
Caryophyllene8–10%9–11%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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