CascadevsChelan

Cascade (dual purpose) and Chelan (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Cascade

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

4.5–9%

Beta acid

4.8–7.5%

Total oil

0.7–2.5 mL

United States

Chelan

Bittering

Alpha acid

12–15%

Beta acid

8.5–10%

Total oil

1.5–1.9 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Cascade

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Chelan

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

FloralCitrus

Only in Cascade

GrapefruitSpicyPine

Only in Chelan

FruityMild

Property

PropertyCascadeChelan
Alpha acid4.5–9%12–15%
Beta acid4.8–7.5%8.5–10%
Co-humulone30–40%33–35%
Total oil0.7–2.5 mL1.5–1.9 mL
Myrcene45–60%45–55%
Humulene8–20%12–15%
Caryophyllene3–9%9–12%
Farnesene3–9%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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