MultiheadvsCluster

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

Multihead

Aroma

Alpha acid

3.5–4.5%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

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 Multihead

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Cluster

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Multihead

CitrusTropicalPeach

Only in Cluster

FloralEarthySweet

Property

PropertyMultiheadCluster
Alpha acid3.5–4.5%5.5–9%
Beta acid5.5–8%4.5–6%
Co-humulone45%33–43%
Total oil0.5–1.5 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene47–49%38–46%
Humulene-15–20%
Caryophyllene-8–10%
Farnesene-0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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