CascadevsYakima Gold

Cascade and Yakima Gold are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Cascade

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

4.5–9%

Beta acid

4.8–7.5%

Total oil

0.7–2.5 mL

United States

Yakima Gold

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

7–8%

Beta acid

3.5–4.5%

Total oil

0.5–1.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Cascade

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Yakima Gold

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Grapefruit

Only in Cascade

FloralSpicyCitrusPine

Only in Yakima Gold

SmoothLemon

Property

PropertyCascadeYakima Gold
Alpha acid4.5–9%7–8%
Beta acid4.8–7.5%3.5–4.5%
Co-humulone30–40%21–23%
Total oil0.7–2.5 mL0.5–1.5 mL
Myrcene45–60%35–45%
Humulene8–20%18–24%
Caryophyllene3–9%5–9%
Farnesene3–9%8–12%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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