CascadevsNectaron

Cascade (dual purpose) and Nectaron (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

Nectaron

Aroma

Alpha acid

9.5–12%

Beta acid

4.5–5%

Total oil

1–1.7 mL

New Zealand

Key differences

When to pick Cascade

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Nectaron

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

GrapefruitCitrus

Only in Cascade

FloralSpicyPine

Only in Nectaron

TropicalPineapplePassion fruitPeachNectar

Property

PropertyCascadeNectaron
Alpha acid4.5–9%9.5–12%
Beta acid4.8–7.5%4.5–5%
Co-humulone30–40%26–28%
Total oil0.7–2.5 mL1–1.7 mL
Myrcene45–60%59–65%
Humulene8–20%10–20%
Caryophyllene3–9%4–5%
Farnesene3–9%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesNew Zealand
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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