Stirling
Alpha acid
6–12%
Beta acid
4–6%
Total oil
1.3–1.9 mL
United States
Cluster
Alpha acid
5.5–9%
Beta acid
4.5–6%
Total oil
0.4–1 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Stirling
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
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 Stirling
HerbalCitusSpicy
Only in Cluster
EarthySweet
Property
| Property | Stirling | Cluster |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 6–12% | 5.5–9% |
| Beta acid | 4–6% | 4.5–6% |
| Co-humulone | 21–28% | 33–43% |
| Total oil | 1.3–1.9 mL | 0.4–1 mL |
| Myrcene | 44–48% | 38–46% |
| Humulene | 19–23% | 15–20% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–7% | 8–10% |
| Farnesene | 11–17% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |