CascadevsXJA2/436

Cascade (dual purpose) and XJA2/436 (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

XJA2/436

Bittering

Alpha acid

11.5–16.4%

Beta acid

7.8–8.4%

Total oil

1.1–1.7 mL

South Africa

Key differences

When to pick Cascade

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick XJA2/436

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Cascade

GrapefruitFloralSpicyPine

Only in XJA2/436

LemonZestPapayaCataloupeGooseberryResinBlueberry

Property

PropertyCascadeXJA2/436
Alpha acid4.5–9%11.5–16.4%
Beta acid4.8–7.5%7.8–8.4%
Co-humulone30–40%29–30%
Total oil0.7–2.5 mL1.1–1.7 mL
Myrcene45–60%18–30%
Humulene8–20%21–35%
Caryophyllene3–9%11–13%
Farnesene3–9%8–18%
OriginUnited StatesSouth Africa
PurposeDual purposeBittering

Related comparisons