ClustervsMarco Polo
Cluster and Marco Polo 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
Marco Polo
Alpha acid
12–13%
Beta acid
4.5–5.5%
Total oil
-
China
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 Marco Polo
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Cluster
FloralEarthySweet
Only in Marco Polo
GooseberryOreganoElderflower
Property
| Property | Cluster | Marco Polo |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5.5–9% | 12–13% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–6% | 4.5–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 33–43% | 30–35% |
| Total oil | 0.4–1 mL | - |
| Myrcene | 38–46% | 40–50% |
| Humulene | 15–20% | 15–25% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–10% | 8–12% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | China |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |