PalisadevsCluster

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

Palisade

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5.5–10%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

0.8–2 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 Palisade

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

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

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Palisade

OrangeYogurtHoneyPassion fruitApricotClean

Only in Cluster

EarthySweet

Property

PropertyPalisadeCluster
Alpha acid5.5–10%5.5–9%
Beta acid5.5–8%4.5–6%
Co-humulone24–29%33–43%
Total oil0.8–2 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene45–55%38–46%
Humulene10–20%15–20%
Caryophyllene8–16%8–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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