CascadevsHBC 586

Cascade and HBC 586 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

HBC 586

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

18–22%

Beta acid

11–14%

Total oil

2.5–4.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Cascade

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

When to pick HBC 586

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

SpicyCitrus

Only in Cascade

GrapefruitFloralPine

Only in HBC 586

MangoLycheeHerbalGuava

Property

PropertyCascadeHBC 586
Alpha acid4.5–9%18–22%
Beta acid4.8–7.5%11–14%
Co-humulone30–40%35–40%
Total oil0.7–2.5 mL2.5–4.5 mL
Myrcene45–60%55–65%
Humulene8–20%8–12%
Caryophyllene3–9%8–10%
Farnesene3–9%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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