What is the necessary water temperature for a turbid mash?

The necessary water temperature for a turbid mash should be relatively cold to avoid a stuck mash. A turbid mash often includes significant amounts of grains and particles, which, when combined with high temperatures, can lead to a gelatinous mixture that hinders the flow of liquid through the mash bed. Keeping the temperature lower helps to ensure that the mash remains fluid and allows for better extraction of sugars, while also reducing the risk of sticking.

In a turbid mash, a balance must be maintained. High temperatures can denature enzymes prematurely or cause starches to gelatinize too much, leading to difficulties in lautering, while room temperature might not provide the necessary conditions for effective enzymatic activity. Boiling temperatures are generally too high for mashing stages, as they would destroy enzymatic activity altogether. Therefore, a cooler water temperature is essential for facilitating the proper flow and extraction process during a turbid mash.