PahtovsCascade

Pahto (bittering) and Cascade (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Pahto

Bittering

Alpha acid

17–20%

Beta acid

4.5–6%

Total oil

1–2.5 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 Pahto

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Cascade

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Pahto

NeutralHerbalEarthyCleanSmooth

Only in Cascade

GrapefruitFloralSpicyCitrusPine

Property

PropertyPahtoCascade
Alpha acid17–20%4.5–9%
Beta acid4.5–6%4.8–7.5%
Co-humulone26–32%30–40%
Total oil1–2.5 mL0.7–2.5 mL
Myrcene58–72%45–60%
Humulene8–11%8–20%
Caryophyllene3–6%3–9%
Farnesene0–1%3–9%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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