Briess Cherry Wood Smoked Malt 50 lb

Briess Cherry Wood Smoked Malt 50 lb is a distinctive specialty malt crafted by smoking premium barley malt over natural cherry wood. This process imparts a smooth, sweet smoke character that is far more subtle and approachable than traditional peat smoked malts. The result is a unique ingredient that contributes notes of hardwood smoke, toasted bread, light fruitwood, bacon like smokiness, and mild sweetness while maintaining a clean malt backbone. Its balanced profile makes it one of the most versatile smoked malts available for craft brewers.

In the brewing process, Cherry Wood Smoked Malt adds layers of complexity ranging from subtle background smokiness to a prominent smoked character depending on usage rate. It performs exceptionally well in smoked porters, stouts, brown ales, Scotch ales, Rauchbiers, Oktoberfests, and experimental craft beer styles. Unlike harsher smoked malts, it allows brewers to incorporate smoke flavor without overwhelming the base beer, making it far more versatile in recipes.

What makes Briess Cherry Wood Smoked Malt unique compared to other smoked malts is its smooth fruitwood smoke profile. While peat smoked malts contribute intense earthy, medicinal, and phenolic characteristics associated with certain Scotch whiskies, Cherry Wood Smoked Malt offers a softer, sweeter smoke character with subtle hints of wood fired barbecue and toasted malt. Compared to traditional beechwood smoked malts used in classic German Rauchbiers, it delivers a gentler smoke intensity and a slightly sweeter finish, making it easier to incorporate into a wider range of beer styles.

The malt retains sufficient enzymatic activity to function as part of a base malt bill, giving brewers flexibility when designing smoked beer recipes.

Usage Rate: Typically 5 - 60% of the grist

• 5 - 15%: Subtle smoke complexity
• 15 - 30%: Noticeable cherry wood smoke character
• 30 - 60%: Prominent smoke flavor for smoked beer styles

Color (Lovibond): 5°L

Diastatic Power: Approximately 90° Lintner

Flavor Notes: Cherry wood smoke, toasted bread, mild bacon, hardwood smoke, subtle sweetness, light fruitwood

While primarily used in brewing, Briess Cherry Wood Smoked Malt can also be incorporated into craft distilling applications where a smooth, wood-smoked character is desired in whiskey or specialty spirits.

Briess Cherry Wood Smoked Malt is an excellent choice for brewers seeking a refined smoke character that enhances rather than dominates a beer. Its smooth fruitwood smoke profile, balanced malt flavor, and versatility make it a standout ingredient for both classic smoked beers and innovative craft brewing recipes.