Beer Forum

Is there a good substitute for Crystal 75 if my LHBS doesn't carry it ?

Does he have Crystal 80?

Or English Dark Crystal? http://www.northernbrewer.com/shop/brew ... ystal.html

Yes they have Crystal 80 I just was not sure if there is a flavor difference. All the crystals they have are 10 20 30 40 60 80 120, some of the recipes in BCS call for 25 75. Thanks for the help.

topfuelbt wrote:Yes they have Crystal 80 I just was not sure if there is a flavor difference. All the crystals they have are 10 20 30 40 60 80 120, some of the recipes in BCS call for 25 75. Thanks for the help.

I believe that's how Crisp labels their crystal. I've learned throught CYBI that many pro brewers consider Crisp crystal malt to be the best. I think BrewmastersWarehouse carries it. Go with what your LHBS has but theres a bit of info for next time.

I quite often blend a lighter crystal with a darker crystal to end up with about the right Lovebond color. It tends to add a bit of complexity that is really nice. Won't be exactly the same if you are trying to clone something exactly but plenty close enough to come up with a damned good beer.

Bugeater wrote:I quite often blend a lighter crystal with a darker crystal to end up with about the right Lovebond color. It tends to add a bit of complexity that is really nice. Won't be exactly the same if you are trying to clone something exactly but plenty close enough to come up with a damned good beer.

+1. I like doing this too. Like instead of C75, I'd do 3/4 the weight using C80 and 1/4 the weight using C60.

.75 *80 + .25 * 60 = 1 * 75

Thanks for the info Bugeater and Bdawg! This is really helpful since I havent seen a brew supply store with any 65, 75 lovebond crystal.

The lovibond is usually an average range anyway. Plus or minus 10L and you should be fine.
+1 on the blending though the flavor profile will be different.
Good luck!