ClustervsHerald

Cluster and Herald 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

Herald

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9–13%

Beta acid

4.5–5.5%

Total oil

1–1.9 mL

United Kingdom

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 Herald

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Cluster

FloralEarthySweet

Only in Herald

OrangeGrapefruitCitrusClean

Property

PropertyClusterHerald
Alpha acid5.5–9%9–13%
Beta acid4.5–6%4.5–5.5%
Co-humulone33–43%35–37%
Total oil0.4–1 mL1–1.9 mL
Myrcene38–46%39–41%
Humulene15–20%14–16%
Caryophyllene8–10%6–8%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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