Southern DawnvsCascade

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

Southern Dawn

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11.2–13.5%

Beta acid

4.3–5.9%

Total oil

-

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 Dawn

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Cascade

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusSpicy

Only in Southern Dawn

QuinceLemongrassGingerChamomileStrawberryFruityHerbal

Only in Cascade

GrapefruitFloralPine

Property

PropertySouthern DawnCascade
Alpha acid11.2–13.5%4.5–9%
Beta acid4.3–5.9%4.8–7.5%
Co-humulone31–33%30–40%
Total oil-0.7–2.5 mL
Myrcene22–45%45–60%
Humulene17–25%8–20%
Caryophyllene8–11%3–9%
Farnesene4–10%3–9%
OriginSouth AfricaUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

Related comparisons