Cascade
Alpha acid
4.5–9%
Beta acid
4.8–7.5%
Total oil
0.7–2.5 mL
United States
Rakau
Alpha acid
9–12%
Beta acid
5–6%
Total oil
1.8–2.2 mL
New Zealand
Key differences
When to pick Cascade
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
When to pick Rakau
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Pine
Only in Cascade
GrapefruitFloralSpicyCitrus
Only in Rakau
Stone fruitFigFruityApricotResin
Property
| Property | Cascade | Rakau |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 4.5–9% | 9–12% |
| Beta acid | 4.8–7.5% | 5–6% |
| Co-humulone | 30–40% | 23–25% |
| Total oil | 0.7–2.5 mL | 1.8–2.2 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–60% | 55–57% |
| Humulene | 8–20% | 16–17% |
| Caryophyllene | 3–9% | 5–6% |
| Farnesene | 3–9% | 4–5% |
| Origin | United States | New Zealand |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |