CascadevsPacifica

Cascade (dual purpose) and Pacifica (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

Pacifica

Aroma

Alpha acid

5–6%

Beta acid

5–6%

Total oil

0.9–1.2 mL

New Zealand

Key differences

When to pick Cascade

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

When to pick Pacifica

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

FloralCitrus

Only in Cascade

GrapefruitSpicyPine

Only in Pacifica

OrangeMarmaladeHayHoneyTangyZest

Property

PropertyCascadePacifica
Alpha acid4.5–9%5–6%
Beta acid4.8–7.5%5–6%
Co-humulone30–40%24–26%
Total oil0.7–2.5 mL0.9–1.2 mL
Myrcene45–60%10–15%
Humulene8–20%45–55%
Caryophyllene3–9%14–18%
Farnesene3–9%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesNew Zealand
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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