Melba
Alpha acid
7–10%
Beta acid
2.5–5%
Total oil
2–4 mL
Australia
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 Melba
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
When to pick Cascade
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
GrapefruitCitrusSpicy
Only in Melba
Passion fruit
Only in Cascade
FloralPine
Property
| Property | Melba | Cascade |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 7–10% | 4.5–9% |
| Beta acid | 2.5–5% | 4.8–7.5% |
| Co-humulone | 25–35% | 30–40% |
| Total oil | 2–4 mL | 0.7–2.5 mL |
| Myrcene | - | 45–60% |
| Humulene | - | 8–20% |
| Caryophyllene | - | 3–9% |
| Farnesene | - | 3–9% |
| Origin | Australia | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Dual purpose |