CascadevsNelson Sauvin

Cascade (dual purpose) and Nelson Sauvin (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

Nelson Sauvin

Aroma

Alpha acid

10–13%

Beta acid

5–8%

Total oil

0.8–1.5 mL

New Zealand

Key differences

When to pick Cascade

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Nelson Sauvin

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Cascade

GrapefruitFloralSpicyCitrusPine

Only in Nelson Sauvin

WhiteFruityGooseberryGrapesSauvignon

Property

PropertyCascadeNelson Sauvin
Alpha acid4.5–9%10–13%
Beta acid4.8–7.5%5–8%
Co-humulone30–40%20–25%
Total oil0.7–2.5 mL0.8–1.5 mL
Myrcene45–60%20–45%
Humulene8–20%25–37%
Caryophyllene3–9%6–11%
Farnesene3–9%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesNew Zealand
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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