ClustervsPacific Sunrise

Cluster (dual purpose) and Pacific Sunrise (bittering) 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

Pacific Sunrise

Bittering

Alpha acid

12.5–14.5%

Beta acid

5–7%

Total oil

1.5–2.5 mL

New Zealand

Key differences

When to pick Cluster

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Pacific Sunrise

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Cluster

EarthySweet

Only in Pacific Sunrise

WoodyPineLemonOrangeMangoMelon

Property

PropertyClusterPacific Sunrise
Alpha acid5.5–9%12.5–14.5%
Beta acid4.5–6%5–7%
Co-humulone33–43%27–30%
Total oil0.4–1 mL1.5–2.5 mL
Myrcene38–46%45–55%
Humulene15–20%20–24%
Caryophyllene8–10%6–8%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesNew Zealand
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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