I have some cherries in my freezer (about 5lb) that I want to use to make a kriek. I've never brewed a lambic before and there are a lot of complicated techniques floating around, like turbid step mashes that are based on the Belgian traditions. My question is: can I do something simple like a single infusion mash? If the goal is to extract a large amount of dextrins, can't I just mash at a relatively high temperature, like 155F? Some argue that this will have sufficient tannins. I don't necessarily need a "traditional" brew, but rather a beer that is balanced and has an emphasis on the cherries.
As for the grist, does this work?
Pilsner 80%
White Wheat 10%
Munich 5%
Vienna 5%
Sterling hops 20 IBU
boil 90m
WLP001 (CA) or maybe WLP029 (Kolsch) at 70F for 1wk
WLP655 (Belgian Sour Mix 1) for 3mo
add cherries, age 3-6mo
Also, how much cherries to add per gallon, closer to 3lb or 2lb per gallon?
As for the grist, does this work?
Pilsner 80%
White Wheat 10%
Munich 5%
Vienna 5%
Sterling hops 20 IBU
boil 90m
WLP001 (CA) or maybe WLP029 (Kolsch) at 70F for 1wk
WLP655 (Belgian Sour Mix 1) for 3mo
add cherries, age 3-6mo
Also, how much cherries to add per gallon, closer to 3lb or 2lb per gallon?