CascadevsVanguard

Cascade (dual purpose) and Vanguard (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

Vanguard

Aroma

Alpha acid

4–6.5%

Beta acid

5.5–7%

Total oil

0.4–1 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Cascade

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Vanguard

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Cascade

GrapefruitFloralSpicyCitrusPine

Only in Vanguard

WoodyTobaccoPleasantGrassyCedar

Property

PropertyCascadeVanguard
Alpha acid4.5–9%4–6.5%
Beta acid4.8–7.5%5.5–7%
Co-humulone30–40%14–20%
Total oil0.7–2.5 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene45–60%5–15%
Humulene8–20%49–55%
Caryophyllene3–9%13–17%
Farnesene3–9%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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