Cluster
Alpha acid
5.5–9%
Beta acid
4.5–6%
Total oil
0.4–1 mL
United States
Liberty
Alpha acid
3–6.5%
Beta acid
3–4%
Total oil
0.6–1.8 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Cluster
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
When to pick Liberty
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Floral
Only in Cluster
EarthySweet
Only in Liberty
NobleHerbalSpicyDelicateCitrusLemon
Property
| Property | Cluster | Liberty |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5.5–9% | 3–6.5% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–6% | 3–4% |
| Co-humulone | 33–43% | 22–30% |
| Total oil | 0.4–1 mL | 0.6–1.8 mL |
| Myrcene | 38–46% | 15–25% |
| Humulene | 15–20% | 35–45% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–10% | 10–15% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |