Epic
Alpha acid
3–5%
Beta acid
1.7–2.5%
Total oil
0.4–0.8 mL
United Kingdom
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 Epic
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
When to pick Cascade
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Epic
FruityBerryHerbal
Only in Cascade
GrapefruitFloralSpicyCitrusPine
Property
| Property | Epic | Cascade |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 3–5% | 4.5–9% |
| Beta acid | 1.7–2.5% | 4.8–7.5% |
| Co-humulone | 30–33% | 30–40% |
| Total oil | 0.4–0.8 mL | 0.7–2.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 11–12% | 45–60% |
| Humulene | 41–43% | 8–20% |
| Caryophyllene | 1–2% | 3–9% |
| Farnesene | 1–2% | 3–9% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Dual purpose |