CascadevsTillicum

Cascade (dual purpose) and Tillicum (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

Tillicum

Bittering

Alpha acid

13.5–15.5%

Beta acid

9.5–11.5%

Total oil

-

United States

Key differences

When to pick Cascade

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Tillicum

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Cascade

GrapefruitFloralSpicyPine

Only in Tillicum

Stone fruit

Property

PropertyCascadeTillicum
Alpha acid4.5–9%13.5–15.5%
Beta acid4.8–7.5%9.5–11.5%
Co-humulone30–40%35%
Total oil0.7–2.5 mL-
Myrcene45–60%39–41%
Humulene8–20%13–15%
Caryophyllene3–9%7–8%
Farnesene3–9%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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