What is the effect of too much alkalinity in the brew mash?

Too much alkalinity in the brew mash typically raises the mash pH. This elevated pH can adversely affect the brewing process by hindering enzyme activity, particularly those responsible for starch conversion into fermentable sugars. When the pH is too high, flavors can also be negatively impacted, leading to potential off-flavors in the final beer product.

A balanced mash pH is crucial for optimal extraction of sugars and flavors from the grains and for achieving the desired characteristics of the beer. This makes managing alkalinity and, accordingly, the pH level an important consideration in brewing.