CascadevsOrion

Cascade and Orion are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Cascade

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

4.5–9%

Beta acid

4.8–7.5%

Total oil

0.7–2.5 mL

United States

Orion

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

6–9%

Beta acid

2.5–5.75%

Total oil

0.8–2.1 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick Cascade

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Orion

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Spicy

Only in Cascade

GrapefruitFloralCitrusPine

Only in Orion

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Property

PropertyCascadeOrion
Alpha acid4.5–9%6–9%
Beta acid4.8–7.5%2.5–5.75%
Co-humulone30–40%25–30%
Total oil0.7–2.5 mL0.8–2.1 mL
Myrcene45–60%41–56%
Humulene8–20%16–26%
Caryophyllene3–9%6–13%
Farnesene3–9%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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