There are several factors that can influence the color of beer, but the number one factor is the malt used in the brewing process. Malts are grains that have been partially germinated and then dried. They are the primary source of fermentable sugars in beer and provide the necessary nutrients for yeast to thrive.
When it comes to color, malts are roasted to different degrees, which directly impacts the color of the beer. The more the malts are roasted, the darker the wort (sugar solution produced from the malt) will be. This is similar to how other foods develop color during the roasting process.
I have personally experienced this while brewing my own beer. Depending on the type and amount of roasted malts I used, I could achieve a wide range of colors in my beers. For example, using lightly roasted malts would result in a pale golden color, while using heavily roasted malts would produce a deep, almost black color.
To give you a better understanding, here are some examples of different types of malts and their corresponding colors:
1. Pale Malt: This is the lightest malt available and produces a pale straw to golden color. It is commonly used in lighter beer styles such as pilsners and pale ales.
2. Vienna Malt: This malt is kilned at a slightly higher temperature, resulting in a deeper golden to amber color. It is often used in Vienna lagers and Oktoberfest beers.
3. Munich Malt: This malt is kilned at a higher temperature than Vienna malt, giving it a rich amber color. It is commonly used in bocks and dark lagers.
4. Crystal Malt: This type of malt is roasted to a higher temperature, producing a range of colors from amber to dark brown. It adds sweetness and caramel flavors to the beer and is often used in English ales and amber beers.
5. Chocolate Malt: This malt is heavily roasted, resulting in a dark brown to black color. It imparts a roasted, chocolate-like flavor and is used in stouts and porters.
In addition to malts, other factors can also contribute to beer color. For example, the use of specialty grains, such as roasted barley or wheat, can add additional color and flavor. The length and intensity of the boil during the brewing process can also affect the color of the beer.
It's worth noting that beer color is measured using the Standard Reference Method (SRM) scale. This scale ranges from pale yellow (low SRM) to black (high SRM). Brewers often aim for specific SRM ranges to achieve the desired color for their beer style.
Malts play a crucial role in determining the color of beer. The roasting process of malts directly influences the color of the wort, which ultimately translates into the color of the finished beer. By selecting different types and amounts of malts, brewers can create a wide range of colors, from pale straw to deep black. Other factors, such as specialty grains and the brewing process, can also contribute to beer color.