CascadevsPacific Gem
Cascade (dual purpose) and Pacific Gem (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Cascade
Alpha acid
4.5–9%
Beta acid
4.8–7.5%
Total oil
0.7–2.5 mL
United States
Pacific Gem
Alpha acid
13–15%
Beta acid
7–9%
Total oil
0.8–1.6 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 Pacific Gem
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
FloralPine
Only in Cascade
GrapefruitSpicyCitrus
Only in Pacific Gem
Black currantBerryBlackberryOak
Property
| Property | Cascade | Pacific Gem |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 4.5–9% | 13–15% |
| Beta acid | 4.8–7.5% | 7–9% |
| Co-humulone | 30–40% | 35–40% |
| Total oil | 0.7–2.5 mL | 0.8–1.6 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–60% | 30–40% |
| Humulene | 8–20% | 20–30% |
| Caryophyllene | 3–9% | 6–12% |
| Farnesene | 3–9% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | New Zealand |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |