Herkules
Alpha acid
12–17%
Beta acid
4–5.5%
Total oil
1.4–2.4 mL
Germany
Cluster
Alpha acid
5.5–9%
Beta acid
4.5–6%
Total oil
0.4–1 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Herkules
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick Cluster
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Herkules
CitrusMelon
Only in Cluster
FloralEarthySweet
Property
| Property | Herkules | Cluster |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12–17% | 5.5–9% |
| Beta acid | 4–5.5% | 4.5–6% |
| Co-humulone | 32–38% | 33–43% |
| Total oil | 1.4–2.4 mL | 0.4–1 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–50% | 38–46% |
| Humulene | 30–45% | 15–20% |
| Caryophyllene | 7–12% | 8–10% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Germany | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |