CascadevsSun

Cascade (dual purpose) and Sun (bittering) 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

Sun

Bittering

Alpha acid

12–16%

Beta acid

4.5–7%

Total oil

-

United States

Key differences

When to pick Cascade

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Sun

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Cascade

GrapefruitFloralSpicyCitrusPine

Only in Sun

Herbal

Property

PropertyCascadeSun
Alpha acid4.5–9%12–16%
Beta acid4.8–7.5%4.5–7%
Co-humulone30–40%30–40%
Total oil0.7–2.5 mL-
Myrcene45–60%-
Humulene8–20%-
Caryophyllene3–9%-
Farnesene3–9%-
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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