Southern BrewervsCascade

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

Southern Brewer

Bittering

Alpha acid

8–12%

Beta acid

2.5–5%

Total oil

0.4–1.5 mL

South Africa

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 Southern Brewer

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Cascade

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Southern Brewer

EarthyWoody

Only in Cascade

GrapefruitFloralSpicyCitrusPine

Property

PropertySouthern BrewerCascade
Alpha acid8–12%4.5–9%
Beta acid2.5–5%4.8–7.5%
Co-humulone38–41%30–40%
Total oil0.4–1.5 mL0.7–2.5 mL
Myrcene-45–60%
Humulene-8–20%
Caryophyllene-3–9%
Farnesene-3–9%
OriginSouth AfricaUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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