ClustervsMultihead

Cluster (dual purpose) and Multihead (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Cluster

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5.5–9%

Beta acid

4.5–6%

Total oil

0.4–1 mL

United States

Multihead

Aroma

Alpha acid

3.5–4.5%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

0.5–1.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Cluster

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Multihead

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Cluster

FloralEarthySweet

Only in Multihead

CitrusTropicalPeach

Property

PropertyClusterMultihead
Alpha acid5.5–9%3.5–4.5%
Beta acid4.5–6%5.5–8%
Co-humulone33–43%45%
Total oil0.4–1 mL0.5–1.5 mL
Myrcene38–46%47–49%
Humulene15–20%-
Caryophyllene8–10%-
Farnesene0–1%-
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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