TillicumvsCascade

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

Tillicum

Bittering

Alpha acid

13.5–15.5%

Beta acid

9.5–11.5%

Total oil

-

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 Tillicum

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Cascade

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Tillicum

Stone fruit

Only in Cascade

GrapefruitFloralSpicyPine

Property

PropertyTillicumCascade
Alpha acid13.5–15.5%4.5–9%
Beta acid9.5–11.5%4.8–7.5%
Co-humulone35%30–40%
Total oil-0.7–2.5 mL
Myrcene39–41%45–60%
Humulene13–15%8–20%
Caryophyllene7–8%3–9%
Farnesene0–1%3–9%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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