CascadevsLotus

Cascade (dual purpose) and Lotus (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

Lotus

Aroma

Alpha acid

13–17%

Beta acid

5–6%

Total oil

1.5–2.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Cascade

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Lotus

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Cascade

GrapefruitFloralSpicyCitrusPine

Only in Lotus

OrangeVanillaBerryTropicalCream

Property

PropertyCascadeLotus
Alpha acid4.5–9%13–17%
Beta acid4.8–7.5%5–6%
Co-humulone30–40%33–39%
Total oil0.7–2.5 mL1.5–2.5 mL
Myrcene45–60%25–35%
Humulene8–20%35–40%
Caryophyllene3–9%-
Farnesene3–9%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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