CascadevsLiberty

Cascade (dual purpose) and Liberty (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

Liberty

Bittering

Alpha acid

3–6.5%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

0.6–1.8 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Cascade

  • 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
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Liberty

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

FloralSpicyCitrus

Only in Cascade

GrapefruitPine

Only in Liberty

NobleHerbalDelicateLemon

Property

PropertyCascadeLiberty
Alpha acid4.5–9%3–6.5%
Beta acid4.8–7.5%3–4%
Co-humulone30–40%22–30%
Total oil0.7–2.5 mL0.6–1.8 mL
Myrcene45–60%15–25%
Humulene8–20%35–45%
Caryophyllene3–9%10–15%
Farnesene3–9%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

Related comparisons