Cascade Hops

Origins of Cascade Hops

The Cascade hop is a popular hop variety that has its roots deeply embedded in the American brewing industry. Named after the Cascade mountain range, this hop variety was developed in the 1950s by Oregon State University’s breeding program. Its development was part of a larger effort to produce disease-resistant hop varieties within the United States. The parents of Cascade hops are the English Fuggle hop, the Russian Serebrianka hop, and a wild hop variety from Oregon.

It wasn’t until the 1970s that Cascade hops started to gain significant attention. This was largely thanks to the Anchor Brewing Company, which used the hop variety in their Anchor Liberty Ale. This beer, seen as the first modern American IPA, showcased the distinctive floral, citrusy character of Cascade hops, leading to its increased popularity.

Today, Cascade hops are one of the most widely grown hops in the United States, particularly in the Pacific Northwest. They have become a favorite among craft brewers and homebrewers alike due to their versatility and unique flavor profile. The success of Cascade has also led to the development of several other hop varieties, such as Centennial and Amarillo, which share similar characteristics.

Despite its American origins, the appeal of Cascade hops is not limited to the United States. The hop variety has been grown successfully in other countries such as Argentina, Belgium, and New Zealand, each adding their own unique twist to the Cascade flavor profile. Whether you’re a seasoned brewer or a beginner homebrewer, Cascade hops are a staple ingredient that can add a distinctive touch to your beer recipes.

Characteristics of Cascade Hops

Cascade hops are one of the most popular varieties used in American craft brewing. First released in 1956 by the USDA, Cascade hops are a staple in many beer recipes due to their distinct aroma and flavor characteristics. They are known for their moderate bitterness levels and flowery, citrusy aroma, which can often be described as grapefruit-like.

Cascade hops have an alpha acid content typically around 4.5-7%, and a beta acid content of about 4.5-7%. The relatively balanced alpha to beta acid ratio makes them ideal for both bittering and aroma contributions in a beer. Their oil composition also contributes to their unique aroma, with high amounts of myrcene and relatively low amounts of other oils like caryophyllene and humulene.

These hops are grown primarily in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, with Oregon being a major producer. The moderate climate of this region provides ideal growing conditions for Cascade hops, resulting in a consistent and high-quality yield.

When brewing with Cascade hops, it’s important to remember that they are versatile and can be used at various stages of the brewing process. They can be used for bittering if added early in the boil, but are most often used as a flavoring or aroma hop added later in the boil or during dry hopping.

The distinct flavor profile of Cascade hops- citrusy, floral, and slightly spicy, makes them a popular choice for a variety of beer styles. They are a defining ingredient in American Pale Ales and India Pale Ales, but are also used in other styles such as porters and stouts.

Overall, the main characteristics of Cascade hops are their moderate bitterness, distinct citrusy and floral aroma, versatility in brewing, and their strong association with American craft beer styles. Their unique characteristics have made them a favorite among homebrewers and professional brewers alike.

Appropriate Beer Styles for Cascade Hops

Cascade hops are a versatile addition to a variety of beer styles due to their unique citrus and floral characteristics. They are most often used in American-style ales, including American Pale Ale, India Pale Ale (IPA), and American Amber Ale. This is largely because of their balanced bittering capabilities and aromatic qualities, which can add depth and complexity to these beer styles.

However, their usage isn’t limited to American ales alone. Cascade hops can also be found in other beer styles such as Blonde Ales and Porters. In Blonde Ales, Cascade hops can impart a refreshing grapefruit-like flavor, elevating the overall taste of the beer. And in Porters, their citrusy notes can offset the beer’s typically strong, dark malt flavors, providing an interesting contrast.

Another beer style that can benefit from Cascade hops is the Wheat Ale. The hop’s pronounced citrus characteristics can complement the light, fruity flavors usually present in Wheat Ales, adding a new layer of flavor and making the beer more vibrant and refreshing.

Lastly, it’s important to note that the timing of hop addition in the brewing process can dramatically affect the beer’s flavor profile. Adding Cascade hops early in the boil will contribute more to the beer’s bitterness, while adding them later will provide more aroma and flavor. Therefore, understanding how and when to add Cascade hops to your recipe can help you better manipulate the final product’s taste, regardless of the beer style you’re brewing.

How to incorporate Cascade Hops into your recipe

Cascade hops are a versatile ingredient that can be used at various stages of the brewing process to impart different characteristics to your beer. The timing of when these hops are added can significantly impact the beer’s final taste and aroma.

The Cascade hop’s floral, citrusy flavor profile makes it a popular choice for American-style Pale Ales and IPAs. However, its unique characteristics can add depth and complexity to a variety of beer styles.

If you’re aiming to infuse your brew with the grapefruit-like aroma that Cascade hops are renowned for, consider adding them during the final 15 minutes of the boil or even post-fermentation in the dry-hopping stage. Adding them early in the boil can contribute a more pronounced bitterness to your beer, which can balance out the sweetness of the malt.

For homebrewers experimenting with Cascade hops for the first time, a common starting point is to use them as 30% to 40% of the total hop content in your recipe. This proportion can be adjusted according to your personal preference and the specific style of beer you’re aiming for.

It’s also worth noting that Cascade hops can be used in combination with other hop varieties to create a more complex flavor profile. For instance, pairing Cascade hops with a more earthy or spicy hop variety can result in an intriguing blend of flavors.

Ultimately, the best way to understand how to incorporate Cascade hops into your recipe is by experimenting and tasting. Start with a basic recipe, make adjustments based on your taste preferences, and don’t be afraid to try something new. Happy brewing!

Where to buy Cascade Hops

If you’re interested in brewing with Cascade hops, you’ll be pleased to know that they are readily available due to their popularity among craft brewers and homebrewers alike. They can be purchased from a variety of sources, both online and offline.

Most homebrew supply stores carry Cascade hops due to their versatility and widespread use in various beer styles. These stores often sell hops in various forms, such as whole leaf or pelletized, so you can choose based on your brewing preference. It’s always a good idea to shop locally when possible, as this supports small businesses and you can benefit from the advice and expertise of the store staff.

Online, there are several reputable suppliers of brewing ingredients who stock Cascade hops. Websites like Northern Brewer, Yakima Valley Hops, and MoreBeer are popular choices among the homebrewing community. When purchasing hops online, it’s important to check the alpha acid percentage, as this can vary from crop to crop and will affect your beer’s bitterness. Additionally, ensure that the hops are properly sealed and stored to maintain their freshness.

For those looking to buy in bulk, hop farms and wholesalers can provide larger quantities of Cascade hops. This can be a cost-effective option if you’re planning to brew frequently with this hop variety. Some farms even offer the option to buy fresh hops directly during the harvest season.

Finally, always remember that regardless of where you buy your Cascade hops, proper storage is key to preserving their aromatic and flavor properties. Hops should be stored in an airtight container, away from light, heat, and oxygen, and preferably in the freezer.