Turbinado sugar use

[kylesmi]

Hey folks, Just looking for some feedback on turbinado sugar use. I have used belgian candy sugar in beers but find it to be pretty expensive. I know some brewers out there are using turbinado sugar for a substitution. I am just wondering if anyone could tell a difference in there beers? Also a supplier?

Thanks
Kyle

[Greenbrewmonkey]

Hello Kyle,

I think all sugars impart differing flavors. I use a fair number of different types, and am currently using turbinado in one of our beers. Before settling on turbinado for the beer, I ran a few batches changing only the sugars. Differences were there, but slight. Turbinado is partially refined cane sugar, and to be honest the "regular" cane sugar produced a beer far closer in flavor than I was expecting.

The last batch of candi sugar I bought was colored with caramel color. So was the brown sugar I bought. I didn't really like the idea of adding caramel coloring to my beers, so while I tried them to judge the flavor, I opted not to incorporate them into the "final" recipe.

The turbinado has a richer, fuller sugar flavor, if you will.

I like it. I haven't found a great source yet. I have them special order it for me at Whole Foods. Its not organic, but it is Fair Trade.

Cheers,
Ron
Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales

[kylesmi]

Thanks for the information Ron. Cant wait to try some of your beers. I have heard some great things out here in Ca. Talk to you soon.

Kyle