Cascade
Alpha acid
4.5–9%
Beta acid
4.8–7.5%
Total oil
0.7–2.5 mL
United States
Pilot
Alpha acid
8–11.5%
Beta acid
3.3–5%
Total oil
0.8–1.5 mL
United Kingdom
Key differences
When to pick Cascade
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Pilot
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Spicy
Only in Cascade
GrapefruitFloralCitrusPine
Only in Pilot
LemonMarmalade
Property
| Property | Cascade | Pilot |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 4.5–9% | 8–11.5% |
| Beta acid | 4.8–7.5% | 3.3–5% |
| Co-humulone | 30–40% | 28–37% |
| Total oil | 0.7–2.5 mL | 0.8–1.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–60% | 35–40% |
| Humulene | 8–20% | 3–6% |
| Caryophyllene | 3–9% | - |
| Farnesene | 3–9% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |