Cascade
Alpha acid
4.5–9%
Beta acid
4.8–7.5%
Total oil
0.7–2.5 mL
United States
Gaia
Alpha acid
12–15%
Beta acid
5–10%
Total oil
1.5–2.5 mL
Czech Republic
Key differences
When to pick Cascade
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Gaia
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Spicy
Only in Cascade
GrapefruitFloralCitrusPine
Only in Gaia
Hoppy
Property
| Property | Cascade | Gaia |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 4.5–9% | 12–15% |
| Beta acid | 4.8–7.5% | 5–10% |
| Co-humulone | 30–40% | 20–29% |
| Total oil | 0.7–2.5 mL | 1.5–2.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–60% | 23–37% |
| Humulene | 8–20% | 2–4% |
| Caryophyllene | 3–9% | 9–12% |
| Farnesene | 3–9% | 5–7% |
| Origin | United States | Czech Republic |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |