Cluster Hops

Cluster Hops: Picking the Perfect Brew Style for the Classic

Reading Time: around 14 min

Cluster hops might just be your new brewing best buddy. They’re as American as apple pie, originating from the US of A. And these bad boys pack a punch that’s been adding pizzazz to pints since the late 1800s. 

Known for their robust bitterness, they’ve been a go-to for brewers looking to give their beers a stern talking to in the flavor department.

Imagine stepping into a time machine, pint in hand.

Cruising back to the early days of American brewing. Cluster hops likely would have been your wingman. They’re one of the oldest hop varieties grown in the States, and they’ve got the street cred to show for it. 

Thanks to their dual-purpose nature, yielding both bitter and aromatic qualities…

…they’re as versatile as a Swiss Army knife in your brewing arsenal. 

Whether you’re concocting an IPA that smacks the bitterness receptors or a lager smoother than jazz on a summer night. Cluster hops are here to jazz up your hop symphony.

But wait, what’s the best stage to throw them in the mix? 

Craft brewers often deploy them early in the boil to extract that classic bitter kick. While late additions can give your brew a subtle, floral high-five. Just remember, it’s all about balance. 

Too much and your taste buds might wave the white flag. 

Too little, and you’ll miss out on the chorus line of flavors doing the can-can in your mouth.

 So, next time you’re brewing, throw in some Cluster hops and watch the magic happen. 

Trust me; your beer mug will thank you.

Key Takeaways

  • Cluster hops are a historic American hop with strong bittering qualities suitable for various beer styles.
  • These versatile hops work in early or late boil stages, adding different character to your brew.
  • Correctly using Cluster hops can balance bitterness and aroma, creating a harmonious beer experience.

 

The Enticing History of Cluster Hops

Cluster hops have a backstory that’ll tickle your taste buds and your funny bone. Think of them as the granddaddy of American hops. Originating in the United States, these hops are the OGs of the American brewing scene.

Back in the Day: Back in the 1800s, if you were a hop, you wanted to be a Cluster. You were the ‘it’ hop in the hop playground. Dominating hop production like a playground legend.

Prohibition Plot Twist: Then came the Prohibition. Quite the party pooper, eh? Cluster hops were like, “Hold my beer”. Except, there was no beer. Thankfully, they managed to stick around.

Cluster Comeback: Afterward, brewers were all over them again, realizing you can’t keep a good hop down. The Cluster rebound was real!

Family Tree: Let’s talk lineage. It’s like these hops have royalty in their genes; they’re descended from hop aristocracy.

Hop Celeb Status: Now, Clusters are like that classic rock band that never goes out of style. They’re always on the brewing charts with their balanced bittering and floral, fruity notes.

So next time you sip on a historical beer style, doff your cap to the Cluster, because, without them, your beer would be like a comedy show without the punchline. Just not the same! 🍻

Breaking Down the Cluster Hop Profile

Like I said, Cluster hops are the granddaddy of American hop varieties. Think vintage with a modern twist. They’ll throw a party in your beer that your taste buds won’t want to miss.

Main Characteristics

  • Purpose: Dual / Universal
  • Aromas: Floral, Spicy, Herbal
  • Notes: Resin, Earthy, Sweet Fruits
  • Alpha-acids: 5.5% – 9.0% [bitterness added through boiling]
  • Beta-acids: 4.5% – 6.0% [bitterness added through lagering]
  • Cohumulone: 33% – 43% of alpha-acids [bitterness profile: low = smooth, high = sharp]
  • Hops oil breakdown: 0.5 – 1.0 mL / 100g [responsible for flavors and aromas]
    • Myrcene: 38% – 55% [resinous, citrus, fruity]
    • Humulene: 15% – 20% [noble, woody, spicy]
    • Caryophyllene: 6% – 10% [spicy, piney, herbal]
    • Farnesene: 0% – 1% [fresh, green, floral]
Cluster hops

Aromas to Write Home About

Cluster hops are like that unexpected guest who arrives with the most intriguing stories. They bring aromas that are floral and spicy, with a wink of earthy notes. Imagine a bouquet of flowers, but one that’s decided to be a rebel and sneak in a handful of freshly-picked herbs.

  • Floral: Think grandma’s perfume, but way cooler.
  • Spicy: A bit like that cinnamon challenge, but with actual flavor and no regrets.
  • Earthy: Like diving nose-first into a pile of autumn leaves, but less crunchy.
  • Herbs & resin: Just to keep things interesting and complement the picture. 

 

Bitterness and Alpha-Beta Dance

When it comes to bitterness, Clusters aren’t shy. They’re loaded with alpha acids, typically around 5.5-9.0%. Beta acids? Oh, they’re there, alright, playing a supporting role with 4.5-6.0%

It’s the alpha-beta ratio that makes Clusters a go-to for bitterness without the bite.

  • Alpha Acids: For the ‘oomph’ in bitterness.
  • Beta Acids: For the subtler, suave lagering bitterness.
  • Alpha-Beta Ratio: Think salt and pepper, yin and yang, Sonny and Cher.

 

Important note is that they also have a high cohumulone content, which gives them a sharp, clean bitterness. Hence, the robustness mentioned before.

Oil Content: The Secret Sauce

Oil content in Cluster hops? You’d better believe it’s the secret ingredient. These drops of magic are what give Cluster hops their character. Myrcene, humulene, caryophyllene, and a dash of farnesene come together in a total oil content that’s usually in the range of 0.4-1.0 mL/100g.

  • Myrcene: Sweet fruit, but make it hoppy.
  • Humulene: The earthy undertone that keeps you grounded.
  • Caryophyllene: Spice up your life, or at least your beer.
  • Farnesene: A rare find in hops, like a four-leaf clover in a field of greens.

 

So, when you’re crafting that next homebrew and want to hit those nostalgic notes with just the right balance of eccentricity, look no further than Cluster hops. Your taste buds will thank you, and your friends might just think you’re a hop whisperer.

Optimal Utilization in Brewing

Ready to crack the code on cluster hops? 

Let’s hop into how to get the best bang for your brew with these bad boys.

The Bittering Truth in Brewing

Bittering is where cluster hops flex their muscles. 

They’re packed with alpha acids, the compounds that give beer its bitterness. When you’re eyeballing your recipe, remember that these hops aren’t shy. With alpha acid levels usually hovering around 6.5-8.5%, a little goes a long way. 

Think of them like that friend who’s always a tad more intense on game night.

  • When to add: Early in the boiling stage
  • Why: To extract maximum bitterness

 

Aromatics and Late Additions

Now, if you’re looking for your beer to whisper sweet nothings of floral and spicy notes, Cluster hops have got you covered. They moonlight as an aroma hop, and trust me, they know how to leave a lasting impression on your beer’s flavor profile

For that aromatic magic:

  • When to add: Last 5-15 minutes of the boil, or during the whirlpool
  • Why: To capture the hops’ delicate aroma characteristics without boiling them away

 

Dual-Purpose Potential

Torn between bitter and fragrant worlds? 

Chill, because cluster hops are the ultimate multitaskers. By straddling the line as a dual-purpose hop, they give you both the bitterness and the bouquet in one fell swoop. These hops will help you cover all bases, from ales to lagers, without breaking a sweat. 

It’s like they were made for brewers who hate making tough decisions.

  • How to use: Balance between early and late additions
  • Why: To achieve a seamless blend of bitterness and aroma in your beer

 

You’re locked and loaded with the scoop on cluster hops. 

Go forth and brew like a pro!

Cluster hops beer

Cluster Hops in Beer Styles

If you’re brewing a beer and want to add a classic American touch, Cluster hops are your old-school buddies ready to jazz up a variety of styles.

A Hop for Every Pot – from Ales to Lagers

You, my friend, are in luck! Cluster hops are the versatile chameleons of the hop world. They’ll cozy up with your ales and lagers alike. And here’s how.

Ales:

  • Pale Ale: Add a hint of Cluster hops for that sharp, floral kick.
  • Stouts & Porters: A pinch will do. You want the roasted malts to shine, but Cluster hops add a subtle depth.
  • Cream Ale: Cluster hops? Yes, indeed! They toss in a bit of fruitiness that’s cream-ale dreamy.

 

Lagers:

  • American Lager: These hops were practically born to mingle with your crisp, golden lagers.
  • Pilsner: They can hold their own, offering a balancing act against those light malt flavors.

 

Specific Styles for Cluster Greatness

When it comes to laying down the hoppy law, certain beer styles just scream for Cluster hops.

  • IPA: Shake up your IPA with Cluster – think floral and spicy with a herbal grin.
  • Altbier: Clusters bring an earthy tone that compliments those German roots.
  • Amber Ale: Imagine the toasty malt of an amber ale getting a high-five from Cluster’s floral hints.

 

Bonus styles: California Common and Kentucky Common. Definitely worth giving a go.

Hopping Recommendations

Cluster hops are like your grandpa’s favorite dance moves.

A bit retro, but they’ve still got groove.

This hop is the OG of American brewing, and it’s got a kick like a mule with a balance issue. We’re talking floral, we’re talking fruity. And we’ve got enough earthy spiciness to make your beer say, “Hello, sailor!”

Now, what styles are we pairing with this hoppy heritage hero? Think classic American Lagers, and Cream Ales. And if you’re feeling frisky, a throwback IPA that’ll make hipsters weep with nostalgia.

Let’s break it down, brewmaster style. 

For a 5-gallon batch that’ll have your friends tipping their hats, you’ll want to start with about 1 to 1.5 ounces of Cluster for bittering. In lighter styles that is. If you’re brewing something heavier than maybe closer to 2 ounces.

Toss those puppies into the boil when it kicks off…

…and let them simmer away like a mystery novel on a rainy night.

But wait, there’s a plot twist! If you’re aiming for a bit more aroma to tickle the nostrils, sneak in another 0.5-1 ounce with 10 minutes left on the clock. It’s like a secret handshake for your nose.

And for the grand finale, if you’re all about that aroma, why not a hop stand? Once you kill the heat, chuck in another 0.5-1 ounce, and let those hops steep like a fine tea that whispers sweet nothings to your senses.

A bit more or a bit less depending on your total hop bill and style.

Style Name

Brewing Stage

Min of Oz per gallon

Max of Oz per gallon

Min of Oz per batch [5gal]

Max of Oz per batch [5gal]

Average of Oz per gallon

Cream Ale

Aroma

0.04

0.38

0.21

1.9

0.12

 

Bittering

0.03

0.36

0.17

1.82

0.14

 

Dry Hop

0.18

0.33

0.91

1.67

0.26

 

First Wort

0.09

0.15

0.45

0.74

0.1

 

Flavor

0.02

0.3

0.09

1.5

0.09

 

Whirlpool

0.06

0.12

0.31

0.58

0.09

Cream Ale Total

 

0.02

0.38

0.09

1.9

0.13

American IPA

Aroma

0.02

1.82

0.09

9.09

0.22

 

Bittering

0.02

0.74

0.1

3.71

0.22

 

Dry Hop

0.04

0.36

0.18

1.82

0.17

 

First Wort

0.05

0.18

0.25

0.91

0.14

 

Flavor

0.02

0.43

0.09

2.13

0.17

 

Whirlpool

0.09

0.4

0.45

2

0.19

American IPA Total

 

0.02

1.82

0.09

9.09

0.2

American Pale Ale

Aroma

0.03

1.09

0.17

5.45

0.14

 

Bittering

0.03

0.28

0.17

1.39

0.15

 

Dry Hop

0.07

0.36

0.33

1.82

0.18

 

First Wort

0.05

0.28

0.23

1.41

0.15

 

Flavor

0.04

1.46

0.18

7.3

0.16

 

Hopback

0.05

0.05

0.23

0.23

0.05

 

Whirlpool

0.18

0.2

0.91

1

0.19

American Pale Ale Total

 

0.03

1.46

0.17

7.3

0.15

American Stout

Aroma

0.09

0.42

0.45

2.08

0.19

 

Bittering

0.09

0.42

0.45

2.08

0.2

 

Dry Hop

0.18

0.55

0.91

2.73

0.36

 

Flavor

0.08

0.27

0.38

1.34

0.14

 

Whirlpool

0.17

0.17

0.83

0.83

0.17

American Stout Total

 

0.08

0.55

0.38

2.73

0.18

Sweet Stout

Aroma

0.05

0.36

0.23

1.82

0.18

 

Bittering

0.06

0.4

0.31

2

0.18

 

First Wort

0.04

0.04

0.21

0.21

0.04

 

Flavor

0.02

0.4

0.12

2

0.11

 

Whirlpool

0.1

0.1

0.5

0.5

0.1

Sweet Stout Total

 

0.02

0.4

0.12

2

0.15

American Amber Ale

Aroma

0.06

0.51

0.29

2.54

0.18

 

Bittering

0.04

0.45

0.18

2.27

0.16

 

Dry Hop

0.22

0.67

1.1

3.34

0.45

 

First Wort

0.15

0.18

0.74

0.91

0.17

 

Flavor

0.04

0.2

0.21

1

0.13

 

Whirlpool

0.18

0.18

0.91

0.91

0.18

American Amber Ale Total

 

0.04

0.67

0.18

3.34

0.17

Style Name

Brewing Stage

Min of Grams per liter

Max of Grams per liter

Min of Grams per batch [20ltr]

Max of Grams per batch [20ltr]

Average of Grams per liter

Cream Ale

Aroma

0.31

2.85

6.24

57.06

0.92

 

Bittering

0.25

2.72

5

54.47

1.03

 

Dry Hop

1.36

2.5

27.23

50

1.93

 

First Wort

0.67

1.11

13.45

22.29

0.76

 

Flavor

0.14

2.25

2.72

44.93

0.69

 

Whirlpool

0.47

0.87

9.36

17.39

0.65

Cream Ale Total

 

0.14

2.85

2.72

57.06

0.94

American IPA

Aroma

0.14

13.62

2.72

272.33

1.61

 

Bittering

0.15

5.56

3

111.11

1.66

 

Dry Hop

0.27

2.72

5.45

54.47

1.25

 

First Wort

0.37

1.36

7.49

27.23

1.03

 

Flavor

0.14

3.19

2.72

63.74

1.25

 

Whirlpool

0.68

3

13.62

59.91

1.41

American IPA Total

 

0.14

13.62

2.72

272.33

1.47

American Pale Ale

Aroma

0.25

8.17

5

163.4

1.07

 

Bittering

0.25

2.08

5

41.67

1.1

 

Dry Hop

0.5

2.72

9.99

54.47

1.32

 

First Wort

0.34

2.11

6.81

42.11

1.08

 

Flavor

0.27

10.93

5.45

218.68

1.21

 

Hopback

0.35

0.35

7

7

0.35

 

Whirlpool

1.36

1.5

27.23

29.96

1.43

American Pale Ale Total

 

0.25

10.93

5

218.68

1.13

American Stout

Aroma

0.68

3.12

13.62

62.41

1.45

 

Bittering

0.68

3.12

13.62

62.41

1.46

 

Dry Hop

1.36

4.08

27.23

81.7

2.66

 

Flavor

0.56

2

11.23

40

1.04

 

Whirlpool

1.25

1.25

24.96

24.96

1.25

American Stout Total

 

0.56

4.08

11.23

81.7

1.35

Sweet Stout

Aroma

0.34

2.72

6.81

54.47

1.35

 

Bittering

0.46

3

9.22

59.91

1.34

 

First Wort

0.31

0.31

6.24

6.24

0.31

 

Flavor

0.18

3

3.57

59.91

0.84

 

Whirlpool

0.75

0.75

14.98

14.98

0.75

Sweet Stout Total

 

0.18

3

3.57

59.91

1.15

American Amber Ale

Aroma

0.43

3.8

8.7

76

1.38

 

Bittering

0.27

3.4

5.45

68.08

1.23

 

Dry Hop

1.65

5

33

100

3.33

 

First Wort

1.11

1.36

22.22

27.23

1.28

 

Flavor

0.31

1.5

6.16

29.96

0.96

 

Whirlpool

1.36

1.36

27.23

27.23

1.36

American Amber Ale Total

 

0.27

5

5.45

100

1.27

*This data consists of hundreds of thousands of manually input recipes and, despite best efforts, they may contain errors leading to very high max amounts, or be someone’s attempt for experimental brew. You should consider this data more as an overview of how different ingredients were used for different styles to get inspiration. Please do not attempt to add up different lines as it’s all about proportions.

Whichever beer you’re brewing, think of Cluster hops as that dependable wingman for your concoction. Never stealing the spotlight, but always enhancing the party.

That is of course if you keep it balanced.

Guide to Hop Substitutions

When you’re trying to concoct that perfect brew but find yourself staring at an empty hook where your favorite hops should be, don’t panic. Matching the flavor profile and bitterness can be a crafty adventure, and I’m here to be your hop sherpa.

Hop Substitutions

If you’re looking for a hop variety that can be used as a substitute for Cluster hops, consider using Galena, Nugget, or Chinook hops. These are all high-alpha acid hops that can provide a similar bittering profile to Cluster hops.

Usually Paired With

Cluster hops are often paired with other classic American hop varieties. Like Cascade, Centennial, and Chinook. These hops work well together to create a complex and nuanced flavor profile in your beer.

So, there you have it. 

The art of the swizzle and swap with hops. Keep this cheat sheet handy, and you’ll be the craft czar of the homebrew scene. Keep your brews hopping, and your taste buds popping!

Experiments and Homebrew Adventures

If you’re looking to tickle your taste buds with a homebrew that stands out in the neighborhood beer club, Cluster hops might just be your secret weapon. Cluster is an old-school variety known for its floral and spice aromas, supported by fruity notes.

Ready to jazz up your brewing experiments.

Getting Started:

  • Know Your Cluster: Familiarize yourself with Cluster’s alpha acid percentage, typically around 5.5-8.5%. This dictates the bitterness.
  • Flavor Profile: Expect a spice meets floral bouquet that can surprise you. It’s like a dance party for your senses!

 

Craft Your Recipe: Remember, flexibility is the name of the game.

  1. Choose a Style: Cluster hops sing in harmony with classic American lagers or ales. However, you can be a rebel and toss them into a pale ale to see heads turn.
  2. Balancing Act: Combine with milder hops if you want to avoid a hop brawl in your beer.

 

Beer Style

Cluster Usage

American Lager

Base or late addition

Pale Ale

Experimental twist

Cream Ale

Light bittering touch

 

Experiment Wisely:

  • Testing, Testing: Brew small batches. If you create a monster, at least it won’t haunt you in kegs!
  • Note-Taking: Keep a log. What worked? What exploded?

 

Share and Enjoy:

  • Feedback Fiesta: Share with friends or that neighbor you’re trying to one-up in homebrewing.
  • Dial It In: Tweak your recipes based on the chorus of cheers or the awkward silence.

 

So grab your beakers, er, brew kettles. And let the Cluster hop experiments lead you to uncharted beer territories. Who knows, you might just stumble upon a concoction that’ll make your fellow homebrewers green with hop envy!

Closing Toast: A Cluster of References

Alright, if you’re swimming in a sea of hops choices, remember. Cluster hops are that old-school favorite, like your grandad’s vinyl collection. Timeless and utterly cool. They pack that floral and spice punch, with earthy and fruity follow up.

Perfect for those classic American lagers and ales you adore.

  • Aroma: You can spot a Cluster from its floral aroma. A whiff of that and it’s like you’re in an orchard.
  • Bitterness: Ah, the bitterness. Like a snappy comeback, it’s sharp yet balanced.

 

Now, let’s talk about what makes your brew shine with these little beauties:

  1. Before bubbling away in the kettle, remember Cluster hops bring the bitterness ‘A’ game. You want that early addition for a robust profile. Be careful with the amount, tho.
  2. For the background chorus? Those late additions sing a subtle tune of spicy and floral notes.

 

So picture yourself raising a glass.

The bitter is bold, not brash. The background, complex but not chaotic. 

You sip, and it’s like each hop cone has led you on a merry dance across the palate.

And for that perfect beer style? Think traditional, mate. Your Cluster hops will turn a pedestrian pale ale into a stuff-of-legends drink. They’ll put the “pale” in Pale Ale with their old charm.

Lastly, slap a label on your bottle that says “Brewed with Cluster Hops. Handle with Amusement.” Because let’s face it, when you bring out a beer like this, it’s not just a drink.

It’s a conversation starter. 🍻

Picture of Damian

Damian

A lifelong learner, hop enthusiast and a lover of the state of extreme exhaustion.

Finance Analyst in the Investment Bank and co-founder of hopsmatcher.com