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Author Topic: decoction mash  (Read 5029 times)

Offline davidgzach

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Re: decoction mash
« Reply #15 on: November 14, 2011, 07:24:41 am »
I think the decoction will prove to be better with darker beers as you get more carmelization from the various flavor/color malts.  I did a triple decoction Oktoberfest this year which was fantastic compared to a very good double infused one.
Dave Zach

Offline DW

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Re: decoction mash
« Reply #16 on: November 19, 2011, 08:42:20 am »
It seems, based on the discussion here, that doing a decoction at all is somewhat controversial.  I have never done one.  I generally do single infusions and batch sparge.  It was recommended in this discussion to check out the YouTube decoction video, which I did.  He, the German guy, said that decoctions were better when you have "less modified" malts such as munich.  Do you all agree?  Does it really make a difference? 

Online denny

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Re: decoction mash
« Reply #17 on: November 19, 2011, 09:37:02 am »
Do you all agree?  Does it really make a difference? 

I very much agree.
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Offline bluesman

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Re: decoction mash
« Reply #18 on: November 19, 2011, 11:28:11 am »
I think a decoction mash can make a difference when all of the parameters of the mash are in order. Proper grain (under-modified), proper heating schedule, proper enzyme activity, etc... Pilsner Urquell has it down pat. However, they have been making this beer for decades and have refined their techniques.

Personally, I've found that a decoction mash makes great beer but so does a single infusion mash, supplemented with some specialty malts. The difference to me is not overwhelming, and I believe one can make a beer just as good using any mashing technique (single infusion, step mash, decoction mash) by tweaking the grain bill and mash schedule.

That being said, I recommend trying it (decoction mash) out for yourself. The only way to really understand the effects of a decoction mash is to try it for yourself and compare it side-by-side, via blind tasting, with a single infusion or step mashed beer.
Ron Price

Offline davidgzach

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Re: decoction mash
« Reply #19 on: November 21, 2011, 06:29:04 am »
It seems, based on the discussion here, that doing a decoction at all is somewhat controversial.  I have never done one.  I generally do single infusions and batch sparge.  It was recommended in this discussion to check out the YouTube decoction video, which I did.  He, the German guy, said that decoctions were better when you have "less modified" malts such as munich.  Do you all agree?  Does it really make a difference? 

Agree 100%.
Dave Zach