Unravelling the Intriguing Cascade Hops in Beer: An Exploration of Flavours, Substitutes and Styles
If you’ve ever enjoyed an American Pale Ale, there’s a good chance you’ve been tantalised by the refreshing flavour of the cascade hop. This hop variety, which is as rich in flavour as it is in history, is not only a favourite of American breweries but has won the hearts and tastebuds of Australian beer lovers too. Let’s delve deep into the intriguing world of cascade hops, from its historical roots right through to the flavour it imparts in an array of beer styles.
The Historical Tapestry of Cascade Hops
The journey of the cascade hop began in the United States in the 1950s, developed by open pollination of the English Fuggles hop and the Russian hop Serebrianka.
The variety was named ‘Cascade’ for the mountain range that stretches from Canada through the U.S. to Mexico. It was the dominant hop variety in the U.S for many decades and is known for its distinctive citrusy aroma, which set the bar for many American style beers thereafter.
Making its way across the globe, the cascade hop became popular with Australian brewers and beer drinkers for its floral and citrusy punch.
Cascade Hops in Beer: A Symphony of Flavour and Characteristics
The cascade hop is, without doubt, a powerhouse in the hop world, famous for its distinctively spicy, citrus aroma with hints of grapefruit. When used in brewing, it delivers a medium to strong bitterness which is quite pleasing to the palate.
Its Alpha Acids sit at 5.5-9% and Beta Acids around 6-7.5%. The cascade hop is often referred to as a ‘dual-purpose hop’ given its suitable usage in both bittering or aroma and dry additions. This versatility is just one of many factors contributing to the popularity of the cascade hop among craft brewers.
Exploring Beer Styles with Cascade Hops
The broad range of aroma and flavour characteristics make cascade hops suitable for a variety of beer styles. Here, we focus on a few popular ones.
In Australia, the cascade hop is commonly used in pale ales and India pale ales, where its signature citrus flavour really shines. The Little Creatures Pale Ale is a renowned Australian beer that incorporates cascade hops, boasting intricate flavours, highlighting the hop’s citrusy grapefruit notes perfectly.
Discover the Substitutes of Cascade Hops
If you’re a brewer experimenting with different flavours or unable to find cascade hops, fearing not, there are alternatives with similar profiles. Some of these substitutes include Amarillo and Centennial, which deliver a similar citrusy note when used in brewing.
A Toast to the Future of Cascade Hops
There you have it, your crash course in cascade hops in Beer – from its historical roots to the multitude of flavours it introduces into beer, right through to the various styles that feature it and the alternatives if you’re in a pinch.
The cascade hop’s unique history, adaptability, and undeniable contribution to some of the most exceptional beers in the world makes it a unparalleled powerhouse in the brewing scene. Whether you’re a beer drinker or a brewer, next time you enjoy a cascade hop brew, savour it while reflecting on the incredible journey this hop variety has taken.
So why not venture out to your local Australian craft brewery and sample some of your favourite beers with a newfound appreciation for the hops in your glass? If you’re feeling really brave, take a whack at brewing your own beer with some high-quality, locally sourced cascade hops. We guarantee, it makes for an invigorating adventure in taste.
