Black Malt

Black Malt: Unleash the Dark Depths of Your Beer

Black malt, also known as patent malt or roasted barley, is the dark lord of brewing grains, adding an intense roast character and jet-black colour to your beers. It's a powerful ingredient that can elevate your brews to new levels of complexity, but use it wisely!

Unveiling the Dark Secrets:

Black malt boasts a robust profile dominated by dark roast and coffee-like notes. Hints of chocolate and char can also emerge, depending on the roasting temperature. While it contributes minimal fermentable sugars, black malt plays a crucial role in:

• Color Enhancement: Even a small amount (typically 1-5% of your grain bill) can achieve a deep, inky black colour, perfect for stouts, porters, and other dark beer styles.
• Flavour Complexity: Black malt adds layers of roasty depth, balancing sweetness and creating a more sophisticated flavour profile.
• Dryness: Its lack of fermentable sugars contributes to a drier finish, a welcome characteristic in many dark beers.
  

Taming the Beast:

Black malt's power requires a careful hand. Too much can overpower your beer with roasty bitterness. Here are some tips for using it effectively:

• Start Low, Go Slow: Begin with a small percentage (1-2%) and gradually increase based on your desired roast intensity.
• Synergy with Other Malts: Combine black malt with other dark malts like chocolate malt or roasted barley for a more nuanced roast character.
• Balance is Key: Counteract the roastiness with sweeter malts (crystal malts) or hops with contrasting aromas (citrusy or floral).

Black Magic in Action:

Black malt truly shines in these dark beer styles:

• Stouts: A cornerstone ingredient, black malt provides the foundation for robust imperial stouts and classic dry stouts.
• Porters: Black malt adds depth and roast character to porters, complementing chocolate and coffee flavours.
• Black Lagers: Experiment with black malt in dark lagers for a unique roasty twist on the style.

Black malt isn't just for dark beers! Consider using a small amount in brown ales or strong ales for a hint of roast complexity.

Typical Beer Style(s): Ale, Barley Wine, Stout, Black Lager, Porter

Possible Substitution(s): Roasted Barley, Chocolate Malt

Recommended Maximum Usage: Up to 7%

Colour ° EBC: 1433-1900