ClustervsWillamette

Cluster and Willamette 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

Willamette

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

4–7.2%

Beta acid

3–4.5%

Total oil

0.6–1.6 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Cluster

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

When to pick Willamette

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Cluster

EarthySweet

Only in Willamette

CitrusIncenseElderberryCaramelCurry

Property

PropertyClusterWillamette
Alpha acid5.5–9%4–7.2%
Beta acid4.5–6%3–4.5%
Co-humulone33–43%28–35%
Total oil0.4–1 mL0.6–1.6 mL
Myrcene38–46%30–40%
Humulene15–20%20–27%
Caryophyllene8–10%7–8%
Farnesene0–1%5–6%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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