beerandgarden
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Hello All,
I've decided to try a toucan recipe for my next batch and have a can each of Coopers Original Stout and Dark Ale lined up as it seems to be a popular combo. I got a bit concerned about the high IBUs (70+) and BU:GU ratio (1.55) after plugging it into a recipe calculator and started searching some threads for more info about that as I don't want it to come out too harsh. But some people seem happy with the results of the 2 cans straight up to 23L with nothing else added after a little extra aging.
I'm thinking maybe adding some steeped Crystal might ballance the bitterness? If so, how much would be good to add? And light, medium or dark crystal or does it matter? Some people add chocolate malt but I see from my calculator that the darkness is already super high, so I'm guessing it doesn't need it.
I've done the Coopers Stout on it's own with 1kg DME and a little dextrose and found it was fairly ok, but a little too mild and lacking in body and head (looked more like a glass of Coca Cola than a glass of Guinness!). I'm guessing the 2 cans will solve those complaints? Or does it need something else like oatmeal to help with body/texture and head? I could do a little partial mash if it would help a lot but was thinking of keeping it simple.
Any advise appreciated.
Cheers,
Aidan
I've decided to try a toucan recipe for my next batch and have a can each of Coopers Original Stout and Dark Ale lined up as it seems to be a popular combo. I got a bit concerned about the high IBUs (70+) and BU:GU ratio (1.55) after plugging it into a recipe calculator and started searching some threads for more info about that as I don't want it to come out too harsh. But some people seem happy with the results of the 2 cans straight up to 23L with nothing else added after a little extra aging.
I'm thinking maybe adding some steeped Crystal might ballance the bitterness? If so, how much would be good to add? And light, medium or dark crystal or does it matter? Some people add chocolate malt but I see from my calculator that the darkness is already super high, so I'm guessing it doesn't need it.
I've done the Coopers Stout on it's own with 1kg DME and a little dextrose and found it was fairly ok, but a little too mild and lacking in body and head (looked more like a glass of Coca Cola than a glass of Guinness!). I'm guessing the 2 cans will solve those complaints? Or does it need something else like oatmeal to help with body/texture and head? I could do a little partial mash if it would help a lot but was thinking of keeping it simple.
Any advise appreciated.
Cheers,
Aidan