ClustervsTillicum

Cluster (dual purpose) and Tillicum (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

Tillicum

Bittering

Alpha acid

13.5–15.5%

Beta acid

9.5–11.5%

Total oil

-

United States

Key differences

When to pick Cluster

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Tillicum

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Cluster

FloralEarthySweet

Only in Tillicum

Stone fruitCitrus

Property

PropertyClusterTillicum
Alpha acid5.5–9%13.5–15.5%
Beta acid4.5–6%9.5–11.5%
Co-humulone33–43%35%
Total oil0.4–1 mL-
Myrcene38–46%39–41%
Humulene15–20%13–15%
Caryophyllene8–10%7–8%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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