CTZvsCluster

CTZ and Cluster are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

CTZ

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

14.5–17%

Beta acid

4.5–5.5%

Total oil

2.5–4.5 mL

United States

Cluster

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5.5–9%

Beta acid

4.5–6%

Total oil

0.4–1 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick CTZ

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Cluster

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in CTZ

Black currantLicoriceCurryCitrusCannabisDank

Only in Cluster

FloralEarthySweet

Property

PropertyCTZCluster
Alpha acid14.5–17%5.5–9%
Beta acid4.5–5.5%4.5–6%
Co-humulone28–35%33–43%
Total oil2.5–4.5 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene45–55%38–46%
Humulene9–14%15–20%
Caryophyllene6–10%8–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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