Not too long ago I began a couple of experimental beers for Hop Head Farms, using their Colombus hops. The experiment involves looking for differences within the brewing process and finished product based on how the hops were processed. The controls for the experiment included the exact same ingredients and the exact same brewing process, the only real difference between the two batches of beer came from the hops themselves.
Based on what I have observed, the hops perform a bit differently in the boil. But this does not overly affect the finished beer. The beer on the left is A, and the one on the right is B. B was carbed today, which accounts for the slight haziness it currently has (this will go away in a few days). The flavors present in each beer is almost exactly the same. The minor differences that might exist are so slight they have no effect on the flavor profiles.
The biggest difference between the beers can be seen in the brewing process. Batch A had a cleaner boil. There was less hop detritus overall. Where as batch B had continued evidence of hop particulate throughout the boil. The following video shows each addition for both batches.
Time for a pint...
I think it is so cool to learn about the brewing process and the differences in the finished products. I like reading your posts because I don't know anything about brewing beer, but its something I have on my bucket list to do later in life when I have the time/means to do it. Very cool and they look good right about now sitting in an office mid-week!
ReplyDeleteI think one of the greatest perks of life with beer (for me at least) I have taps in my office.
DeleteI couldn't really tell in the video, but what type of burner do you have that big kettle on?
ReplyDeleteI currently use (of all things) the burner from a turkey frier. The joy of brewery engineering, it is not uncommon to find home brewers who have turned all manner of stuff into brewing equipment.
DeleteAlso, the indicator for the differences is in the foam at the top of the boil. For ale a the foam was mostly spent proteins. But for ale b the foam was mixed with green hops as well as spent proteins (indicating much more particulate matter).
DeleteThis is so interesting. Even someone who doesn't really partake in beer as you do, learns so much from your posts. :-)
ReplyDelete