Cascade hop

Cascadehopsinthesun

Cascade hop is a variety of hop used primarily for brewing beer. Originating in the United States, the Cascade hop is known for its distinctive floral, citrus, and grapefruit characteristics, making it a favorite among craft brewers and homebrewers alike. It was first developed in the 1950s through a breeding program at Oregon State University and released to the public in 1972. Since then, it has become one of the most popular hops in the American craft brewing scene.

History

The development of the Cascade hop began in the 1950s as part of a program to create disease-resistant and climate-adaptable hop varieties. The program, led by the USDA and Oregon State University, aimed to support the growing U.S. brewing industry. The Cascade hop was released in 1972 after extensive testing and quickly gained popularity among brewers for its unique aroma and flavor profile.

Characteristics

Cascade hops are characterized by their medium to high bitterness levels and their distinct aroma profile, which includes notes of floral, citrus, and grapefruit. These hops are often used in American Pale Ales and IPAs, where their aroma and flavor can be showcased. The alpha acid content of Cascade hops typically ranges from 4.5% to 7.0%, making them versatile for both bittering and aroma contributions in beer.

Cultivation

Cascade hops are primarily grown in the Pacific Northwest of the United States, particularly in Oregon and Washington. The region's climate and soil conditions are ideal for hop cultivation, contributing to the high quality of Cascade hops produced in the area. The hop vines are trained to grow up trellises in hop fields, and the cones are harvested in late summer.

Usage in Brewing

In brewing, Cascade hops can be used at various stages of the brewing process, including the boil, for bitterness, and late in the boil or during dry hopping, for aroma. They are a staple in many American craft beers, especially pale ales and IPAs. The hop's versatility and distinctive flavor profile also make it suitable for experimenting in other beer styles.

Impact on Craft Brewing

The introduction and widespread adoption of Cascade hops have had a significant impact on the American craft brewing industry. It has become synonymous with the American craft beer movement, contributing to the popularity of hop-forward beer styles such as the American Pale Ale and IPA. The Cascade hop's success has also encouraged the development and use of other aroma hop varieties in the United States.

See Also

• Hop
• Brewing
• American Pale Ale
• India Pale Ale
• Craft beer