I just converted one of my LME partial mash recipes to DME. It appears the color is way off from my previous LME batches. Are there large Fluctuations between the two? My OG readings were spot on, so I believe the ratios were Correct.
LME is more subject to carmelizing, so it can be darker if added early in the boil. A lot of people use late LME additions to lessen the carmelizing effects (add say 10-15 minutes from end of boil).
If the color changed going to DME from LME, did it get lighter?
Yes, I converted 7.5 lbs of LME to 6 lbs of DME. That is why I'm puzzled by the color change. Thanks for the questions...I'd like to understand what went awry.
It would usually go the other way around but you never know with LME. DME is more consistent but comparing the two (light to light etc) isn't apples to apples. They sell an extra light DME that gives a pretty darned light colored brew.
YOu might also have gotten a darker version of one of your parital mash malts.
I had always been using a light LME, that wasn't really that light. We recently brewed a Wheat Hefe using Whear DME, and I was very impressed with how light the wort came out when it went into primary!
it also kinda depends on how old the lme is. It can oxidize over time. Having it the other way around is a bit surprising. Could have been switching of companies?