Cascade Hops: The Pioneer of Craft Beer

Released in 1972 by the USDA breeding program in Oregon, Cascade is more than just a hop; it is a cultural icon. It was the first hop to offer a distinct departure from the noble European varieties, providing the signature citrus and floral character that defined the American Pale Ale style.

The History: From “Cat Pee” to Classic

Cascade (USDA 56013) was bred in 1956 by Dr. Jack Horner at Oregon State University. It is a cross between English Fuggle and a Russian wild hop.

The Rejection: When it was released in 1972, the big breweries (Coors, Anheuser-Busch) hated it. They thought it was too strong, too unstable, and famously described the aroma as “wild garlic” or “cat pee.”
The Revolution: Craft pioneers didn’t care. Anchor Brewing used it in their 1975 Liberty Ale, and Sierra Nevada made it the star of their Pale Ale in 1980. The “grapefruit pine” flavor became the taste of American craft beer.

The Profile: Classic American Aromatics

Cascade is instantly recognizable by its “bright” and “clean” profile. While modern hops like Citra are tropical, Cascade remains the gold standard for citrus-focused brewing.

Primary Aromas: Powerfully grapefruit, floral (rose, geranium), and spice.
Secondary Notes: Hints of pine needles and lychee.
Agronomy: Farmers love Cascade. It grows vigorously, resists Downy Mildew, and produces good yields. It is the “workhorse” of the Pacific Northwest.

The “Three Cs” of Craft Beer

For decades, the “Three Cs” formed the backbone of almost every American IPA:

Cascade: The Aroma. Grapefruit and flowers.
Centennial: The “Super Cascade.” More bitter, more lemon, more floral.
Columbus: The Bittering. Dank, herbal, and high-alpha. (Honorable Mention: Chinook, the piney cousin).

Brewing with Cascade

Cascade is one of the most reliable hops in the brewhouse.

Late Additions: It is the classic “finishing hop.” Adding it at the end of the boil or during the whirlpool extracts that legendary grapefruit punch.
Cascade in the Kitchen: Because of its distinct floral citrus note, Cascade is the best hop for making Hop Water (sparkling water infused with hops) or infusing into syrups for cocktails.

Commercial Examples

To understand Cascade, you must drink the originals:

Sierra Nevada Pale Ale: The beer that defined the hop. It uses Cascade for finishing and aroma.
Anchor Liberty Ale: The first modern dry-hopped beer in America, using 100% Cascade.
Deschutes Mirror Pond: A classic Northwest Pale Ale that leans heavily on the Cascade profile.

Characteristics at a Glance

Alpha Acids: 4.5% – 7.0%
Beta Acids: 4.5% – 7.0% (Well-balanced)
Total Oils: 0.8 – 1.5 ml per 100g
Key Terpenes: Myrcene (45-60% of total oil), Farnesene (high levels give the floral note), Humulene.

Cascade is the hop that changed the world. Every time you enjoy a citrusy craft beer, you are tasting the legacy of this Oregon-born legend. It might not be the loudest hop anymore, but it is certainly the most important.