ClustervsNorthdown

Cluster and Northdown 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

Northdown

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

7–10%

Beta acid

4–5.5%

Total oil

1.2–2.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Cluster

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

When to pick Northdown

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Cluster

EarthySweet

Only in Northdown

PineCedarBerrySpicy

Property

PropertyClusterNorthdown
Alpha acid5.5–9%7–10%
Beta acid4.5–6%4–5.5%
Co-humulone33–43%24–32%
Total oil0.4–1 mL1.2–2.5 mL
Myrcene38–46%23–29%
Humulene15–20%40–45%
Caryophyllene8–10%13–17%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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