EnigmavsCascade

Enigma (aroma) and Cascade (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Enigma

Aroma

Alpha acid

13.5–19.4%

Beta acid

4.5–7.1%

Total oil

1.8–3 mL

Australia

Cascade

Dual purpose

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 Enigma

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Cascade

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

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Enigma

TropicalBerryStone fruitRaspberryRedcurrantWhite

Only in Cascade

GrapefruitFloralSpicyCitrusPine

Property

PropertyEnigmaCascade
Alpha acid13.5–19.4%4.5–9%
Beta acid4.5–7.1%4.8–7.5%
Co-humulone37–43%30–40%
Total oil1.8–3 mL0.7–2.5 mL
Myrcene23–30%45–60%
Humulene12–19%8–20%
Caryophyllene6–8%3–9%
Farnesene9–12%3–9%
OriginAustraliaUnited States
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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