Description
Gypsum (Calcium Sulphate)
Calcium sulfate also known as gypsum, is commonly used in brewing to adjust water chemistry. Here’s what it does in beer:
- Enhances Hop Bitterness: Calcium sulfate increases sulfate levels in brewing water, which accentuates the perception of hop bitterness. This is particularly useful in hoppy styles like IPAs.
- Improves Mash pH: Calcium ions help lower mash pH, improving enzyme activity during mashing, which leads to better starch conversion and efficiency.
- Affects Mouthfeel and Clarity: – Sulfates contribute to a drier, crisper finish, making hop-forward beers feel cleaner. Calcium also aids in protein coagulation, helping with beer clarity.
- Water Profile Adjustment: Some classic beer styles rely on specific water profiles.
