Georgian-Inspired Beers” />
Introduction
Brewing beer with unique spice blends is an exciting way to create complex, flavorful beers. Georgian-inspired beers in particular highlight fragrant spices and herbs like coriander, bay leaves,, and juniper berries to provide a distinctive taste profile. When blending spices for these types of beers, brewers must strike the right balance between allowing the spices to shine while still letting the underlying beer flavor come through.
Selecting Spices
The first step in crafting a Georgian-inspired spice blend is to determine which spices will form the base. Some classic choices include:
- Coriander – Provides citrusy, lemony notes. Use both the seeds and leaves.
- Bay leaves – Lend an herbal, earthy aroma. Use sparingly to avoid overwhelming other flavors.
- Juniper berries – Impart a piney, gin-like quality. Crush or grind them before adding to the beer.
- Black peppercorns – Give a warming heat and spicy bite. Coarsely crack them to release oils.
- Grains of paradise – Feature a peppery, gingery flavor. Toast gently before using to intensify the flavor.
Additionally, creative blends may also incorporate ingredients like cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, dried orange peel, or cloves. Start with small amounts of new spices and adjust to taste.
Blending and Balancing
When combining spices for a Georgian-inspired beer, begin by determining the primary flavor you want the spice blend to showcase, such as citrus, pine, peppery heat, or warm baking spices.
Next, build layers of flavor by incorporating spices with complementary flavors. For example, pairing coriander and orange peel creates a brighter citrus note.
Finally, add accent spices like juniper or black peppercorn in smaller amounts to add depth and prevent any one spice from overpowering the others.
Adding Spices to Beer
There are two main methods for incorporating a blended spice mixture into beer:
- Spice Additions During the Boil – Mixing spices into the boiling wort infuses the beer with spice flavor. Use spices that can stand up to prolonged boiling.
- Spice Additions at End of Fermentation – Adding spices after primary fermentation allows more delicate aromas to shine through. Place spices in a muslin bag for easy removal.
No matter when you add them, start with about 0.5 oz of blended spices per 5 gallon batch and taste as you go. Spices can always be added in later charges if a stronger flavor is desired.
Complementary Beer Styles
The balanced, warming spice flavors of Georgian-style blends pair particularly well with certain beer styles:
- Belgian Ales – Spices accent the fruity esters and lighter malt bill of many Belgian styles.
- Porters – Darker malts and moderate bitterness allow spice flavors to come through.
- Wheat/Rye Beers – Spicy, peppery rye and wheat malts complement spice additions.
- Strong Ales – The sweet, malty backbone stands up to assertive spice blends.
Playing with spice combinations and adding them to complementary beer styles allows brewers to produce unique Georgian-inspired brews. With some creativity and experimentation, you can craft a beer that is truly Original and bold in its spiced flavor profile.
