ClustervsWhitbread Golding Variety (WGV)

Cluster and Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV) are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Cluster

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5.5–9%

Beta acid

4.5–6%

Total oil

0.4–1 mL

United States

Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV)

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5.4–7.7%

Beta acid

2–3.5%

Total oil

0.8–1.2 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Cluster

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

When to pick Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV)

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

FloralEarthySweet

Only in Cluster

-

Only in Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV)

Herbal

Property

PropertyClusterWhitbread Golding Variety (WGV)
Alpha acid5.5–9%5.4–7.7%
Beta acid4.5–6%2–3.5%
Co-humulone33–43%35–43%
Total oil0.4–1 mL0.8–1.2 mL
Myrcene38–46%19–27%
Humulene15–20%35–42%
Caryophyllene8–10%11–15%
Farnesene0–1%1–2%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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