CascadevsMedusa

Cascade (dual purpose) and Medusa (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

Medusa

Aroma

Alpha acid

3–5%

Beta acid

5–6.5%

Total oil

0.4–0.7 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Cascade

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Medusa

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Cascade

GrapefruitFloralSpicyPine

Only in Medusa

GuavaMelonApricotLemonLimeAlfalfaPeach

Property

PropertyCascadeMedusa
Alpha acid4.5–9%3–5%
Beta acid4.8–7.5%5–6.5%
Co-humulone30–40%35–49%
Total oil0.7–2.5 mL0.4–0.7 mL
Myrcene45–60%54–55%
Humulene8–20%9–10%
Caryophyllene3–9%13–14%
Farnesene3–9%1–2%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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