Crystal Malt - Castle Malting
Château Crystal® is a uniquely aromatic caramel malt from Castle Malting, adding distinct depth to amber and dark lager beers. Its specialised production gives it a rich, malty flavour with a copper colour, enhancing both body and smoothness. Château Crystal® offers a noticeable diastatic power, lending a balanced bitterness and exceptional aromatic presence, ideal for Belgian ales and German bock beers.
- Wort Colour: 140-160 EBC
- Usage: Up to 20% of the mix for amber, dark lagers, and ales
- Beer Styles: Belgian ale, bock, brown ale, dark lagers
Description
What is Château Crystal®?
Château Crystal® is a premium Belgian caramel malt known for its distinctive deep copper hue and aromatic richness. Created with a specialised malting process, it provides a pronounced malt flavour that infuses beer with complexity and a smooth, refined bitterness, making it a valuable addition to various beer styles.
How to Use Château Crystal®
This malt is highly versatile, best used in amber, aromatic, and dark beers. With a recommended usage rate of up to 20% of the grain bill, Château Crystal® enhances colour and flavour profiles in a range of brews, including Belgian ales and darker lagers.
Flavour Profile
Expect a malty richness with hints of caramel and light toasty notes. The malt’s smooth bitterness provides balance, making it suitable for bock, brown ales, and other full-bodied beers requiring a strong malt backbone.
Enzymatic Activity
Château Crystal® maintains a stronger diastatic power than many traditional caramel malts, offering improved fermentation support without overpowering the malt profile.
Mashing
The malt integrates well in standard mashing processes, providing colour and body. Its balanced profile means it can be combined with base malts or speciality grains for tailored flavour experiences.
Combining with Other Malts
Château Crystal® combines well with lighter malts for depth without overwhelming the character. When paired with robust base malts, it contributes a smooth, roasted note while maintaining a balanced sweetness and bitterness.
Benefits of Château Crystal®
This malt is crafted to enhance both aroma and flavour in amber or dark beers. Its unique profile and well-rounded bitterness add complexity, creating a brew with lasting character and a full body.
History
Rooted in Belgium's malting tradition, Château Crystal® reflects Castle Malting's expertise in producing aromatic malts that showcase the unique tastes and textures of classic European styles.
Key Features
- Moisture Content: Max 4.5%
- Extract (Dry Basis): 78.0%
- Wort Colour: 140-160 EBC
- Roasting Temperature: Custom process by Castle Malting
- Usage: Up to 20% of the mix for amber, dark lagers, and ales
- Flavour Profile: Rich maltiness with smooth bitterness
- Applications: Belgian ales, German bock beers, aromatic brews
- Beer Styles: Belgian ale, bock, brown ale, dark lagers
Additional Parameters
- pH: 6.0