Pacific SunrisevsCluster

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

Pacific Sunrise

Bittering

Alpha acid

12.5–14.5%

Beta acid

5–7%

Total oil

1.5–2.5 mL

New Zealand

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 Pacific Sunrise

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Cluster

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Pacific Sunrise

WoodyPineLemonOrangeMangoMelon

Only in Cluster

EarthySweet

Property

PropertyPacific SunriseCluster
Alpha acid12.5–14.5%5.5–9%
Beta acid5–7%4.5–6%
Co-humulone27–30%33–43%
Total oil1.5–2.5 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene45–55%38–46%
Humulene20–24%15–20%
Caryophyllene6–8%8–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginNew ZealandUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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