CascadevsSussex

Cascade (dual purpose) and Sussex (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

Sussex

Aroma

Alpha acid

4.3–5.8%

Beta acid

2.4–3.2%

Total oil

0.4–0.6 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Cascade

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • 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

When to pick Sussex

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Cascade

GrapefruitFloralSpicyPine

Only in Sussex

EarthyGrassyMintVanilla

Property

PropertyCascadeSussex
Alpha acid4.5–9%4.3–5.8%
Beta acid4.8–7.5%2.4–3.2%
Co-humulone30–40%29–32%
Total oil0.7–2.5 mL0.4–0.6 mL
Myrcene45–60%41–43%
Humulene8–20%22–24%
Caryophyllene3–9%-
Farnesene3–9%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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