Cluster
Alpha acid
5.5–9%
Beta acid
4.5–6%
Total oil
0.4–1 mL
United States
Herkules
Alpha acid
12–17%
Beta acid
4–5.5%
Total oil
1.4–2.4 mL
Germany
Key differences
When to pick Cluster
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
When to pick Herkules
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Cluster
FloralEarthySweet
Only in Herkules
CitrusMelon
Property
| Property | Cluster | Herkules |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5.5–9% | 12–17% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–6% | 4–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 33–43% | 32–38% |
| Total oil | 0.4–1 mL | 1.4–2.4 mL |
| Myrcene | 38–46% | 30–50% |
| Humulene | 15–20% | 30–45% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–10% | 7–12% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | Germany |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |