Hop Plant Profile Cascade: A Craft Beer American Revolution

When it comes to American style ale Cascade has been a staple that shaped trends and flavours for decades. As a plant it is also one of the best hops you can buy, a fast grower and hardy. Despite competition it seems set to remain an iconic part of American brewing. This is quite a feat for one plant, just how did it manage all this and more?

Developed in the 60s, and released in the 70s it was named after the Cascade Range. Mountains that stretch over multiple west coast US states. Including Washington and Oregon, who are some of the top hop producing states. That as you might have guessed includes many growing Cascade. It is so beloved in the states that there is even a yearly Cascade Cup. A competition to see who can grow the best Cascade hops that year.

As a plant Cascade is truly a monster. It grows fast, sends out many shoots and produces a mountain of crops. Make sure whatever you grow it up is a sturdy frame. Cause it will be pushed to the limits. As a bonus Cascade was developed to be resistant to downy mildew. With parentage of Fuggles and Serebrianka among others Cascade is the child of immigrants much like the American people.

It has a distinct strong citrus scent along with a grapefruit like flavour. Dual purpose and unmistakable characteristics make it an essential for any home brewer.

Though, it’s hardly the only American hop. This doesn’t truly answer why is it so beloved. Like anything a combination of factors brought Cascade to the forefront.

Anchor Liberty Ale was the first commercial beer that grew to prominence using Cascade in 1975. Patriotically named, the initial release celebrated the 200th Anniversary of Paul Revere warning that the British were coming. An American Revolution had started once again as the first modern American IPA after prohibition quickly found great popularity. In terms of a sale pitch Cascade really lucked out. Well, that’s the story. The exact timings and Liberty’s original recipe are somewhat disputed now. However it did eventually become part of the recipe and has since stuck around.

Whoever got it right first it was around this time it became prominent all over the US brewing industry, it had the exact qualities they were looking for and was in great abundance. Americans like their extremes and Cascade offered them just and more. From ales to lagers it could be found all over. It also found favour with modern craft brewers. In the race for the hoppiest beers imaginable Cascade, at first, has an advantage. As stated before it is dual purpose, so can be used as both an Aroma and Bittering hop. Has high Alpha and Beta acid. Even has a high oil composition.

What could go wrong? Citra.  A name many recognise with either joy or scorn. If you want a beer where all you taste is the hops then Citra is your man. This sadly has taken Cascade niche somewhat.

That isn’t to say it isn’t still popular. You can still commonly find it in many beers, and as Citra has plant breeders rights you’d be very lucky to get your hands on a plant. If I ever do remind me to update this article with a more positive spin. Personally I find Cascade’s less over powering flavour to be much nicer. Some must agree as the Cascade Cup carries on. It’ll never truly go out of fashion. It is too iconic, and grows so well. Do hops ever truly go out of style? This one won't.

We sell Cascade in 9cm and 1L pots. Along with it featuring in packs with other American Varieties.

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