Yakima ClustervsChinook
Yakima Cluster (bittering) and Chinook (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Yakima Cluster
Alpha acid
4.4–9.8%
Beta acid
3–6.1%
Total oil
0.24–0.9 mL
United States
Chinook
Alpha acid
11.5–15%
Beta acid
3–4%
Total oil
1–2.7 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Yakima Cluster
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick Chinook
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Yakima Cluster
EarthyFloralSweetFruity
Only in Chinook
PineResinGrapefruitSpicyDankCannabis
Property
| Property | Yakima Cluster | Chinook |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 4.4–9.8% | 11.5–15% |
| Beta acid | 3–6.1% | 3–4% |
| Co-humulone | 39–42% | 27–35% |
| Total oil | 0.24–0.9 mL | 1–2.7 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–55% | 20–30% |
| Humulene | 17–19% | 18–24% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–7% | 9–11% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |