Cluster
Alpha acid
5.5–9%
Beta acid
4.5–6%
Total oil
0.4–1 mL
United States
Waimea
Alpha acid
14.5–19%
Beta acid
7–9%
Total oil
1.8–2.3 mL
New Zealand
Key differences
When to pick Cluster
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
When to pick Waimea
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Cluster
FloralEarthySweet
Only in Waimea
PineCitrusMandarinHerbalTangerine
Property
| Property | Cluster | Waimea |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5.5–9% | 14.5–19% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–6% | 7–9% |
| Co-humulone | 33–43% | 22–24% |
| Total oil | 0.4–1 mL | 1.8–2.3 mL |
| Myrcene | 38–46% | 59–61% |
| Humulene | 15–20% | 9–10% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–10% | 2–3% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 4–6% |
| Origin | United States | New Zealand |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |