CascadevsSylva

Cascade (dual purpose) and Sylva (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

Sylva

Aroma

Alpha acid

4–7.3%

Beta acid

3–7%

Total oil

0.9–1.4 mL

Australia

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 Sylva

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Cascade

GrapefruitSpicyCitrusPine

Only in Sylva

BohemianHoppyWoody

Property

PropertyCascadeSylva
Alpha acid4.5–9%4–7.3%
Beta acid4.8–7.5%3–7%
Co-humulone30–40%20–28%
Total oil0.7–2.5 mL0.9–1.4 mL
Myrcene45–60%26–36%
Humulene8–20%18–27%
Caryophyllene3–9%5–8%
Farnesene3–9%22–28%
OriginUnited StatesAustralia
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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