Cascade
Alpha acid
4.5–9%
Beta acid
4.8–7.5%
Total oil
0.7–2.5 mL
United States
Vital
Alpha acid
9–16%
Beta acid
6–11%
Total oil
1.1–2.5 mL
Czech Republic
Key differences
When to pick Cascade
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
When to pick Vital
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Spicy
Only in Cascade
GrapefruitFloralCitrusPine
Only in Vital
PlumLavenderLicorice
Property
| Property | Cascade | Vital |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 4.5–9% | 9–16% |
| Beta acid | 4.8–7.5% | 6–11% |
| Co-humulone | 30–40% | 21–26% |
| Total oil | 0.7–2.5 mL | 1.1–2.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–60% | 40–60% |
| Humulene | 8–20% | 2–5% |
| Caryophyllene | 3–9% | 5–8% |
| Farnesene | 3–9% | 1–3% |
| Origin | United States | Czech Republic |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |