Cluster

The original American hop.

Origin

Willamette Valley

Country

USA

Released

1700s (heritage)

Alpha Acid

5.5–8.5%

What it tastes like

Cluster was the dominant US hop for over 150 years and accounted for the majority of American hop production until the 1970s. Earthy, blackcurrant-like, and a touch peppery. You'll occasionally taste it in heritage-style amber lagers, pre-Prohibition lagers, and any beer trying to recreate a 19th-century American profile.

earthyblackcurrantspice

Best in these styles

pre-Prohibition lagerAmerican ambercream ale

Tasting Tip

Pre-Prohibition lagers from breweries like Hill Farmstead or Suarez Family will sometimes lean on Cluster for historical authenticity.

Beers showcasing Cluster

Specific beer examples coming soon.

Substitutes & relatives

If you can't source Cluster, these hops bring overlapping character.

Chinook

pine forward

For brewers — technical profile

Alpha Acid

5.5–8.5%

Beta Acid

4.5–5.5%

Total Oil

0.4–0.8 mL/100g

Oil composition

myrcene

45-55%

humulene

15-18%

caryophyllene

6-8%

farnesene

<1%

History

Cluster is a heritage variety — likely a chance hybrid of European hops brought to America by colonists. It dominated US hop production until the late 20th century, when higher-alpha and aroma-driven varieties replaced it.