While ingredients such as malt, hops and yeast play a vital role in the flavour of beer, there is one often overlooked element that has a major impact on the final product: water. Water makes up a large part of a beer's composition and can greatly influence its flavour and character.
 
Water is the basis of beer, making up the majority of its volume. It plays a variety of important roles throughout the brewing process. During the mashing process, water extracts sugar from the germinated grains to form the wort. Water also affects enzyme activity, pH and starch conversion, all of which are key factors in achieving the desired beer characteristics. In addition, water quality affects the health of the yeast, fermentation and the extraction of hop flavour and aroma.
 
The water quality profile refers to the composition and characteristics of the water, including pH, mineral content, hardness and dissolved solids. These variables vary depending on the source, such as local tap water, groundwater or surface water. Craft brewers often adapt water characteristics to specific beer styles, aiming to replicate classic examples or create unique interpretations.
 
Pale Ale and IPA
These hop-driven styles often benefit from slightly increased levels of sulphate, accentuating the bitterness of the hops and enhancing the perceived dryness.
Stout and Porter
These rich, dark beers can benefit from higher calcium levels, promoting a smooth mouthfeel and balancing the bitterness of the roasted malt.
Belgian Style
These styles of beer often feature mineral-rich water with elevated carbonate levels, contributing to the distinctive flavour and effervescence characteristic of Belgian beers.
Pilsner and Lager
Crisp lagers, such as pilsner, may require low mineral content water to achieve a soft and delicate flavour that allows the hops and malt to shine.
 
Water treatment equipment plays a key role in shaping the flavour and character of craft beers. By understanding and manipulating the characteristics of water, brewers can create a variety of beer styles with unique characteristics.
 
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