Cluster
Alpha acid
5.5–9%
Beta acid
4.5–6%
Total oil
0.4–1 mL
United States
Opal
Alpha acid
5–14%
Beta acid
3.5–5.5%
Total oil
0.8–1.3 mL
Germany
Key differences
When to pick Cluster
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
When to pick Opal
- 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 Opal
Black currantCitrusSpicyHerbalAnise
Property
| Property | Cluster | Opal |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5.5–9% | 5–14% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–6% | 3.5–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 33–43% | 13–34% |
| Total oil | 0.4–1 mL | 0.8–1.3 mL |
| Myrcene | 38–46% | 20–45% |
| Humulene | 15–20% | 30–50% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–10% | 8–15% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | Germany |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |