Crystal
Alpha acid
2.8–6%
Beta acid
4.5–8.5%
Total oil
0.8–2.3 mL
United States
Cascade
Alpha acid
4.5–9%
Beta acid
4.8–7.5%
Total oil
0.7–2.5 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Crystal
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Cascade
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
FloralSpicy
Only in Crystal
WoodyGreenFruityCinnamonNutmegBlack currant
Only in Cascade
GrapefruitCitrusPine
Property
| Property | Crystal | Cascade |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 2.8–6% | 4.5–9% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–8.5% | 4.8–7.5% |
| Co-humulone | 20–26% | 30–40% |
| Total oil | 0.8–2.3 mL | 0.7–2.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–55% | 45–60% |
| Humulene | 20–30% | 8–20% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–12% | 3–9% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 3–9% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Dual purpose |
Hersbrucker