Cascade Hops are a classic American aroma hop known for their bright citrus, floral, and grapefruit notes. Originally bred in the 1950s and released in the 1970s, Cascade helped define the American craft beer revolution. Given its moderate alpha acids and a distinctive citrus-grapefruit aroma profile, Cascade is great for late boil additions and dry hopping. It delivers a crisp, zesty character that’s perfect for Pale Ales, IPAs, and more. Even today with the abundance of modern IPA hops, Cascade remains one of the most beloved and versatile hops in American brewing, lending its signature punch to everything from classic ales to modern hop-forward recipes. Technical Details: Alpha Acids: 4.5%–7.0% Beta Acids: 4.5%–7.0% Country of Origin: United States Total Oils: 0.8–1.5 mL/100g Usage: Aroma – late additions and dry hopping Substitutes: Centennial, Amarillo, Columbus Ideal For: Pale Ale, IPA, Blonde Ale, Amber Ale, Porter Cascade Hops FAQ What flavors does Cascade add to beer? Cascade is known for its signature grapefruit, citrus zest, and floral aroma. Some brewers report hints of pine and spice in certain harvests. Can Cascade be used for bittering? Yes, although it’s primarily used for aroma, Cascade can be used for early additions in lighter recipes where a soft bitterness is preferred. What beer styles use Cascade hops? Cascade is a cornerstone of American Pale Ales and West Coast IPAs. It also works beautifully in Blonde Ales, Amber Ales, and even Porters. What hops pair well with Cascade? Cascade pairs well with Centennial, Amarillo, and Citra for layered citrus character. It can also be balanced with earthy hops like Willamette for more traditional ales. Is Cascade good for dry hopping? Absolutely. Dry hopping with Cascade emphasizes its floral and grapefruit notes, especially when used in tandem with newer fruity hop varieties. Pro Tip: For a classic American Pale Ale, blend Cascade with Centennial and add a late whirlpool hop addition to boost citrus aroma without excess bitterness.
