CascadevsCitra

Cascade and Citra are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Cascade

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

4.5–9%

Beta acid

4.8–7.5%

Total oil

0.7–2.5 mL

United States

Citra

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

10–15%

Beta acid

3–4.5%

Total oil

1.5–3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Cascade

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

When to pick Citra

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

GrapefruitFloralCitrus

Only in Cascade

SpicyPine

Only in Citra

PeachMelonLimeGooseberryPassion fruitLychee

Property

PropertyCascadeCitra
Alpha acid4.5–9%10–15%
Beta acid4.8–7.5%3–4.5%
Co-humulone30–40%20–35%
Total oil0.7–2.5 mL1.5–3 mL
Myrcene45–60%60–70%
Humulene8–20%7–13%
Caryophyllene3–9%5–8%
Farnesene3–9%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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