"Enhanced" Flavor in Kolsch

Discussion in 'Homebrewing' started by StevensBrewing, May 4, 2015.

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  1. StevensBrewing

    StevensBrewing Initiate (0) Oct 13, 2014 Pennsylvania

    Hi All,
    I'm taking a family vacation in July and want to put something together really special to bring. I recently brewed a Brewer's Best Kolsch, and it was fantastic. I'm curious if I could throw a few orange peels in or a couple of cloves to give it that little hint of sweetness that I think would enhance the beer.
    What is the community's thoughts?
    I'm also going to brew my own Amber Ale recipe to bring along.

    Thanks!
     
    #1 StevensBrewing, May 4, 2015
  2. scurvy311

    scurvy311 Savant (1,135) Dec 3, 2005 Louisiana

    Orange zest sure
    Clove unknown (I've never brewed with it)
    Coriander seed another idea

    I'm not sure I would agree that either of those additives would lend a hint of sweetness.
     
    #2 scurvy311, May 4, 2015
  3. scottakelly

    scottakelly Maven (1,487) May 9, 2007 Ohio

    None of those ingredients would add sweetness. If you're not doing all grain brewing yet I would suggest steeping some carapils or caramunich to add some body and residual sweetness
     
    #3 scottakelly, May 4, 2015
  4. pweis909

    pweis909 Grand Pooh-Bah (3,250) Aug 13, 2005 Wisconsin
    Pooh-Bah

    Two good ways to enhance a kolsch, from someone who has brewed two of them (and never had a authentic commercial example):
    1.Let it lager: throw what you have heard about top fermenting yeasts out the window and treat this like a lager. Ferment cold, do a diacetyl rest, gradually reduce temp to near freezing. Sit on it for a few weeks.

    2. Hallertau hop aroma. Sure, it's not supposed to be hoppy. But it's not supposed to have orange and coriander, either! This is a German beer and nothing says German like Hallertau hops. At least one oz more than you think you need, added late. Not to style, but the stuff of dreams.
     
    #4 pweis909, May 5, 2015
    MrOH likes this.
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