Mackinac
Alpha acid
9–14%
Beta acid
2.8–4%
Total oil
1.5–2.2 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 Mackinac
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Cascade
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
CitrusSpicyFloral
Only in Mackinac
TropicalMelonPapayaBlack currant
Only in Cascade
GrapefruitPine
Property
| Property | Mackinac | Cascade |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 9–14% | 4.5–9% |
| Beta acid | 2.8–4% | 4.8–7.5% |
| Co-humulone | 28–35% | 30–40% |
| Total oil | 1.5–2.2 mL | 0.7–2.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 15–17% | 45–60% |
| Humulene | 11–12% | 8–20% |
| Caryophyllene | 4–5% | 3–9% |
| Farnesene | 1–2% | 3–9% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Dual purpose |