Petit BlancvsCluster

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

Petit Blanc

Aroma

Alpha acid

2–4%

Beta acid

5–6%

Total oil

0.5–0.8 mL

France

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 Petit Blanc

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

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 Petit Blanc

CherryMelonPapayaGreenLilac

Only in Cluster

FloralEarthySweet

Property

PropertyPetit BlancCluster
Alpha acid2–4%5.5–9%
Beta acid5–6%4.5–6%
Co-humulone15%33–43%
Total oil0.5–0.8 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene-38–46%
Humulene-15–20%
Caryophyllene-8–10%
Farnesene-0–1%
OriginFranceUnited States
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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