Decoction Shortcuts
Many sources suggest short-circuiting the process: if melanoidins are the secret to malt complexity, then just add some melanoidin malt to the mash. This can add some rich malt character, but it doesn’t really capture the flavor of a decoction mash. In particular, melanoidin malt often skews the balance sweeter, making it harder to get the crisp dry finish of classic European lagers.
Many sources suggest short-circuiting the process: if melanoidins are the secret to malt complexity, then just add some melanoidin malt to the mash. This can add some rich malt character, but it doesn’t really capture the flavor of a decoction mash. In particular, melanoidin malt often skews the balance sweeter, making it harder to get the crisp dry finish of classic European lagers.