CascadevsSonnet

Cascade (dual purpose) and Sonnet (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

Sonnet

Aroma

Alpha acid

2.6–7.4%

Beta acid

2–3.7%

Total oil

0.2–1 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Cascade

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Sonnet

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

FloralCitrus

Only in Cascade

GrapefruitSpicyPine

Only in Sonnet

HoneysuckleSweetLemonEarthyGrassHoneyOak

Property

PropertyCascadeSonnet
Alpha acid4.5–9%2.6–7.4%
Beta acid4.8–7.5%2–3.7%
Co-humulone30–40%-
Total oil0.7–2.5 mL0.2–1 mL
Myrcene45–60%-
Humulene8–20%-
Caryophyllene3–9%-
Farnesene3–9%-
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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