I do BIAB all-grain, full boil occasionally supplemented with DME for higher gravity beers. Because of set-up limitations this requires me to do two separate boils.
I used to do partial boils and top-off. When I was doing this I was dissatisfied with the end product. But I have changed so many things since then which now has me doubting that topping off was truly the cause of my dissatisfaction. And I'd like to be able to shorten my brew day.
I know that partial boils can darken the wort. And I know that some believe there is lowered hop utilization (whether it be as a result of increased wort concentration or increased hot break concentration).
So, now my question...
Does anyone think there is something else that is suboptimal with topping off? My concern is that there is further change that occurs during boiling that benefits the overall taste and that this is lost with top off water. Whether its a chemical change related to acid-base reactions or whatever.
I just can't get off the idea that top off water dilutes taste of the beer compared with the same OG full boil technique.
I'll probably stick with what I'm doing now until I buy new equipment and/or move to a place with outside space. But, in the meantime, any thoughts? Opinions?
I used to do partial boils and top-off. When I was doing this I was dissatisfied with the end product. But I have changed so many things since then which now has me doubting that topping off was truly the cause of my dissatisfaction. And I'd like to be able to shorten my brew day.
I know that partial boils can darken the wort. And I know that some believe there is lowered hop utilization (whether it be as a result of increased wort concentration or increased hot break concentration).
So, now my question...
Does anyone think there is something else that is suboptimal with topping off? My concern is that there is further change that occurs during boiling that benefits the overall taste and that this is lost with top off water. Whether its a chemical change related to acid-base reactions or whatever.
I just can't get off the idea that top off water dilutes taste of the beer compared with the same OG full boil technique.
I'll probably stick with what I'm doing now until I buy new equipment and/or move to a place with outside space. But, in the meantime, any thoughts? Opinions?