Cascade Hop Pellets 11 lb

Cascade is one of the most iconic American hop varieties and helped define the modern craft beer movement. Developed by the USDA and released in 1972, this versatile dual-purpose hop is prized for its bright citrus character, balanced bitterness, and exceptional aroma. Cascade remains a favorite among home brewers and commercial breweries alike for everything from classic American Pale Ales to modern IPAs.

Technical Specifications

• Manufacturer: Yakima Chief Hops
• Hop Type: Aroma / Dual Purpose
• Origin: United States
• Alpha Acid: 4.5 - 7.0%
• Beta Acid: 4.8 - 7.0%
• Cohumulone: 33 - 40%

Flavor & Aroma Profile

Cascade is renowned for its vibrant grapefruit aroma, layered with notes of lemon zest, floral blossoms, pine, herbs, and subtle spice. Late kettle additions deliver crisp citrus flavor, while whirlpool and dry hop additions intensify its fresh grapefruit and floral bouquet. Its balanced profile makes Cascade an outstanding single hop variety while also blending seamlessly with newer fruit forward American hops.

Brewing Applications

Although commonly used for flavor and aroma, Cascade also produces a smooth bitterness in moderately hopped beers. It is a staple in American Pale Ale, West Coast IPA, American IPA, Blonde Ale, American Wheat Beer, Amber Ale, Porter, and Brown Ale. Cascade pairs especially well with Centennial, Chinook, Citra®, Mosaic®, Simcoe®, Amarillo®, and Comet to build layered citrus, pine, and tropical fruit character.

Recommended Hop Substitutes

If Cascade is unavailable, consider:

• Centennial – Similar citrus profile with higher alpha acids.
• Amarillo® – More sweet orange and stone fruit character.
• Chinook – More pine and spice while retaining citrus notes.
• Crystal – A softer, floral alternative for balanced American ales.

Lineage & History

Cascade was developed by the USDA breeding program from the open pollination of a Fuggle female plant, incorporating genetics from the Russian variety Serebrianker. Released in 1972, it became the signature hop of the American craft beer movement and helped establish the bold citrus-forward character now associated with countless American beer styles. Today, Cascade remains one of Yakima Chief Hops' cornerstone varieties and a benchmark for classic American hop aroma.