Idaho GemvsCascade

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

Idaho Gem

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11–14%

Beta acid

5–7%

Total oil

1.3–2.3 mL

United States

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 Idaho Gem

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Cascade

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

SpicyCitrus

Only in Idaho Gem

PineappleCherryCandiedHerbalMintStone fruitRedberryMojitoSweet

Only in Cascade

GrapefruitFloralPine

Property

PropertyIdaho GemCascade
Alpha acid11–14%4.5–9%
Beta acid5–7%4.8–7.5%
Co-humulone40–45%30–40%
Total oil1.3–2.3 mL0.7–2.5 mL
Myrcene-45–60%
Humulene-8–20%
Caryophyllene-3–9%
Farnesene-3–9%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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