Cascade
Alpha acid
4.5–9%
Beta acid
4.8–7.5%
Total oil
0.7–2.5 mL
United States
Relax
Alpha acid
0.3–4%
Beta acid
10–15%
Total oil
1–1.3 mL
Germany
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 Relax
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Cascade
GrapefruitFloralSpicyCitrusPine
Only in Relax
HoneydewMelonCognacLycheeLavenderLeatherHibiscusLemongrass
Property
| Property | Cascade | Relax |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 4.5–9% | 0.3–4% |
| Beta acid | 4.8–7.5% | 10–15% |
| Co-humulone | 30–40% | - |
| Total oil | 0.7–2.5 mL | 1–1.3 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–60% | 17–30% |
| Humulene | 8–20% | - |
| Caryophyllene | 3–9% | - |
| Farnesene | 3–9% | - |
| Origin | United States | Germany |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |