GlaciervsCluster

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

Glacier

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

3.3–9.7%

Beta acid

5.4–10%

Total oil

0.5–1.5 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 Glacier

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

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 Glacier

PlumBlackberryWoodyCedar

Only in Cluster

FloralEarthySweet

Property

PropertyGlacierCluster
Alpha acid3.3–9.7%5.5–9%
Beta acid5.4–10%4.5–6%
Co-humulone11–16%33–43%
Total oil0.5–1.5 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene35–45%38–46%
Humulene25–35%15–20%
Caryophyllene8–13%8–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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