EpicvsCluster

Epic (aroma) and Cluster (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Epic

Aroma

Alpha acid

3–5%

Beta acid

1.7–2.5%

Total oil

0.4–0.8 mL

United Kingdom

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 Epic

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Cluster

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

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Epic

FruityBerryHerbal

Only in Cluster

FloralEarthySweet

Property

PropertyEpicCluster
Alpha acid3–5%5.5–9%
Beta acid1.7–2.5%4.5–6%
Co-humulone30–33%33–43%
Total oil0.4–0.8 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene11–12%38–46%
Humulene41–43%15–20%
Caryophyllene1–2%8–10%
Farnesene1–2%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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