ClustervsOld Mission

Cluster (dual purpose) and Old Mission (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

Old Mission

Aroma

Alpha acid

4.33%

Beta acid

3.7%

Total oil

-

United States

Key differences

When to pick Cluster

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Old Mission

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Cluster

FloralEarthySweet

Only in Old Mission

CitrusPineSpicyHerbalBlack currantTart

Property

PropertyClusterOld Mission
Alpha acid5.5–9%4.33%
Beta acid4.5–6%3.7%
Co-humulone33–43%-
Total oil0.4–1 mL-
Myrcene38–46%-
Humulene15–20%-
Caryophyllene8–10%-
Farnesene0–1%-
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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