MinstrelvsCascade

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

Minstrel

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5–7%

Beta acid

3–3.5%

Total oil

0.5–0.7 mL

United Kingdom

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 Minstrel

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

When to pick Cascade

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Spicy

Only in Minstrel

HerbalBerryOrange

Only in Cascade

GrapefruitFloralCitrusPine

Property

PropertyMinstrelCascade
Alpha acid5–7%4.5–9%
Beta acid3–3.5%4.8–7.5%
Co-humulone22–26%30–40%
Total oil0.5–0.7 mL0.7–2.5 mL
Myrcene22–25%45–60%
Humulene1–4%8–20%
Caryophyllene-3–9%
Farnesene7–9%3–9%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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