Cascade

Classic American Citrus • Signature Grapefruit Aroma • The Pale Ale Original

Cascade is the hop that launched the American craft beer revolution, prized for its unmistakable grapefruit and floral character that defined the American Pale Ale. Released in 1971 from the USDA breeding program, it remains one of the most widely grown and most reliable aroma hops in the country, equally at home in a first-time extract batch and a competition-winning pale ale.

With alpha acids of 6%, Cascade sits comfortably in dual-purpose territory: soft enough to use generously in late additions, yet capable of contributing smooth, moderate bitterness when added early in the boil.

Flavor & Aroma Profile

• Fresh grapefruit and citrus zest
• Bright floral, blossom-like aroma
• Light pine and spice undertones
• Subtle earthy backbone
• Clean, refreshing finish

Used sparingly, Cascade lends a gentle citrus lift to balanced styles. Loaded into the whirlpool and dry hop, it delivers the assertive grapefruit punch that made West Coast pale ales famous.

Brewing Applications

Cascade is a staple ingredient in many American craft styles, including:

• American Pale Ale
• American IPA
• Amber Ale
• Blonde Ale
• American Wheat
• Fresh Hop / Harvest Ale

It also blends beautifully with other C-hops like Centennial and Chinook, adding brightness to bigger, more resinous hop bills.

Usage Recommendations

For a 5-gallon batch, use 0.5–1 oz at 60 minutes for clean base bitterness, then 1–2 oz across the last 10 minutes, whirlpool, and dry hop for classic citrus aroma. Lower late additions keep the beer balanced and sessionable; heavier dry hopping pushes grapefruit to the front.

Cascade pairs naturally with a simple 2-Row and Crystal malt base — the combination that built the original American Pale Ale.

Specifications

• Alpha Acid: 6%
• Flavor Notes: Grapefruit, citrus, floral
• Typical Use: Dual-purpose, favoring aroma
• Common Additions: Late boil, whirlpool, dry hop
• Substitutes: Centennial, Amarillo
• Beer Styles: Pale ales, IPAs, ambers, blondes, wheat beers

Whether you're crafting your first pale ale or chasing the classic West Coast profile, Cascade delivers the grapefruit-and-floral signature that defines American craft beer.