ClustervsFirst Gold
Cluster and First Gold are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Cluster
Alpha acid
5.5–9%
Beta acid
4.5–6%
Total oil
0.4–1 mL
United States
First Gold
Alpha acid
5.6–10%
Beta acid
2.3–4.1%
Total oil
0.7–1.5 mL
United Kingdom
Key differences
When to pick Cluster
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
When to pick First Gold
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Floral
Only in Cluster
EarthySweet
Only in First Gold
TangerineApricotMagnoliaRedberryHerbalOrangeHerbalSpicy
Property
| Property | Cluster | First Gold |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5.5–9% | 5.6–10% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–6% | 2.3–4.1% |
| Co-humulone | 33–43% | 29–35% |
| Total oil | 0.4–1 mL | 0.7–1.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 38–46% | 24–28% |
| Humulene | 15–20% | 20–24% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–10% | 6–7% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 2–4% |
| Origin | United States | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |