Steeping grain question, crystal 20L v 10L

going to be starting my first batch in the next day or so

its an extract kit for a west coast style Pale Ale

part of the recipe includes steeping grains, specifically


Crystal 20L 8 oz
Crystal 10L 8 oz

i've looked around a little and can't find info on what the difference between the two is, ie what does the 20L and 10L represent?

the grains were included in part of the kit so it's a curiosity question

thanks

It's a difference in amount/heat of kilining. The higher the number before that L the more caramelized it's become. They'll be darker in color and flavor, but more like cooked sugar than roasted coffee.

The L is for degrees Lovibond. It is used to measure the color and flavor the grain has. A lower number is milder in flavor and lighter in color and a higher number is bolder in flavor and darker in color.

10L and 20L is pretty normal for pale ales etc, and Lovibond goes all the way to 120 for stouts and porters I believe.

thanks for the replies

My LHBS just sells 15L and suggests that to replace 10L AND 20L, so don't be surprised if you see that, just get 1# of it.