CascadevsElixir

Cascade (dual purpose) and Elixir (aroma) 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

Elixir

Aroma

Alpha acid

4.6–7%

Beta acid

4.5–6.6%

Total oil

1.8–2.2 mL

France

Key differences

When to pick Cascade

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Elixir

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

FloralSpicyCitrus

Only in Cascade

GrapefruitPine

Only in Elixir

RoseCognacLeatherTobaccoTropicalTangerineOrangeSandalwood

Property

PropertyCascadeElixir
Alpha acid4.5–9%4.6–7%
Beta acid4.8–7.5%4.5–6.6%
Co-humulone30–40%25–30%
Total oil0.7–2.5 mL1.8–2.2 mL
Myrcene45–60%65–75%
Humulene8–20%1–2%
Caryophyllene3–9%26–27%
Farnesene3–9%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesFrance
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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