Opal
Alpha acid
5–14%
Beta acid
3.5–5.5%
Total oil
0.8–1.3 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 Opal
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Cluster
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Floral
Only in Opal
Black currantCitrusSpicyHerbalAnise
Only in Cluster
EarthySweet
Property
| Property | Opal | Cluster |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5–14% | 5.5–9% |
| Beta acid | 3.5–5.5% | 4.5–6% |
| Co-humulone | 13–34% | 33–43% |
| Total oil | 0.8–1.3 mL | 0.4–1 mL |
| Myrcene | 20–45% | 38–46% |
| Humulene | 30–50% | 15–20% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–15% | 8–10% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Germany | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |