Vital
Alpha acid
9–16%
Beta acid
6–11%
Total oil
1.1–2.5 mL
Czech Republic
Cascade
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 Vital
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
When to pick Cascade
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Spicy
Only in Vital
PlumLavenderLicorice
Only in Cascade
GrapefruitFloralCitrusPine
Property
| Property | Vital | Cascade |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 9–16% | 4.5–9% |
| Beta acid | 6–11% | 4.8–7.5% |
| Co-humulone | 21–26% | 30–40% |
| Total oil | 1.1–2.5 mL | 0.7–2.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 40–60% | 45–60% |
| Humulene | 2–5% | 8–20% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–8% | 3–9% |
| Farnesene | 1–3% | 3–9% |
| Origin | Czech Republic | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |