CascadevsWai-iti

Cascade (dual purpose) and Wai-iti (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

Wai-iti

Aroma

Alpha acid

2.5–3.5%

Beta acid

4.5–5.5%

Total oil

1.4–1.8 mL

New Zealand

Key differences

When to pick Cascade

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Wai-iti

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

SpicyCitrus

Only in Cascade

GrapefruitFloralPine

Only in Wai-iti

Stone fruitPeachApricotLimeMandarin

Property

PropertyCascadeWai-iti
Alpha acid4.5–9%2.5–3.5%
Beta acid4.8–7.5%4.5–5.5%
Co-humulone30–40%22–24%
Total oil0.7–2.5 mL1.4–1.8 mL
Myrcene45–60%2–4%
Humulene8–20%27–29%
Caryophyllene3–9%8–10%
Farnesene3–9%12–14%
OriginUnited StatesNew Zealand
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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