Cluster features strong resinous and slightly herbal characteristics. This is Australian grown Cluster Hops.
Cluster (Hop) is one of the oldest US hops grown in North America. It is considered to be a bittering hop with modest levels of alpha-acids (5%–9% w/w) and low oil content (0.4–0.8 ml/100 g). The rootstock’s origin is not known for certain; however, it is believed to have originated from a chance (open) pollination of the English Black Cluster with an American wild male, probably on the east coast of the United States sometime in the late 18th century.
The storage stability of Cluster’s alpha acids is among the best of all hops in the world and it keeps very well even in non- refrigerated storage. Cluster is often described as having a clean bitterness and a blackcurrant-like aroma. At one time, the vast majority of American beer contained Cluster.
Form:
- Type 90 AU Hop Pellets
Pack Sizes:
- 100g
- 250g (SAVE 10% OFF 100g Price)
- 500g (SAVE 15% OFF 100g Price)
- 1 Kg (SAVE 20% OFF 100g Price)
- 5 Kg (SAVE 30% OFF 100g Price)
Brewing Values
- Crop: 2024 Batch: P-24-E-01 Lot: 701
- Alpha Acids: 5.5%
- Beta Acids: 4.5% – 5.5%
- Co-humulone 36 – 42%
- Total Oil 0.4 – 1 mL/100g
- Linalool 0.3 – 0.5% of total oil
- Caryophyllene 8 – 10% of total oil
- Farnesene < 1.0% of total oil
Pedigree:
Her pedigree is unknown, however hybridization of imported varieties and indigenous male hops has been suggested. Cluster Hops comes from, as they say, mass selection. This translates to varieties were likely transported from Europe, potentially by the Dutch and English settlers, and after years of growing, hybridization, likely open pollination, a strong sample was chosen and given the name Cluster. Due to its history trail, and early use, it is believed to be one of the oldest American hops used in mass beer production.
Brewing Usage
- Dual Purpose
Aroma
- Resinous
- Citrus
- Spice
Aroma & Flavour Characteristics
Cluster is an excellent dual purpose hop and is often used in the reproduction of historical beer styles. The bitterness from this variety is not overwhelming, and is balanced with its floral flavor and aroma. Cluster Hops has fairly high myrcene oil content which definitely adds to this floral bouquet, which is a nice mix between earthy flavors and sweet fruits.
Possible Substitutions
- Cluster US
- Galena
- Northern Brewer
Typical Beer Styles
- Amber Ale
- Cream Ale
- English Pale
- Golden Ale
- Honey Ale
- IPA
- Lager
- Mild Ales
- Porter
- Stouts – Oatmeal and Espresso
- Barley Wine
General Trade Perception
- Cluster is an excellent dual purpose hop and is often used in the reproduction of historical beer styles.
Craft Beer Examples
- Troegs Independent Brewing | Imperial Double Espresso Stout | Scratch Series #019
- Mendocino Brewing Company| Blue Heron Pale Ale