Carafa Special II Question

[SteveO]

I've found a Bock recipe I'm wanting to brew this weekend that calls for .25# of Carafa Special II that neither I have, nor my LHBS (they have III)

Here's the Lovibond ratings for the 2:

II 413-450
III 488-563

I'm guessing with this little amount I could sub a little less of III and still get the same color properties out of it??

[OldTree]

Get the III and subtract a few kernels.

[Kally]

what size batch? I don't think I've ever seen 1/4 lb of anything make a difference - other than maybe roasted barley in a pils or Amer lager

[Bob Brews]

I have seen a 1/4 lb of ingredients make the differece between an award winning beer and a middle of the pack beer. You can definately taste it if you know what to look for.
Carafa is frequently used for color. It is sold as a dehusked kernal and does not impart too potent of a flavor in low quantities but can have a drastic impact on SRM. Auggie is right on about taking a small percentage out (maybe more like a tablespoon than a few kernels?) otherwise you could get a little too dark for a bock and also you may be able to taste a little roast (which is not desireable in a bock).
I have brewed a pilsner and did the same recepie immediately following but with 3/4 lb (in 10 gallons) and it turned into a good copy of Amber Bock or Shiner Bock (neither of which are bock beer).
Good luck and use the III if you have to.

[bmock]

what size batch? I don't think I've ever seen 1/4 lb of anything make a difference - other than maybe roasted barley in a pils or Amer lager

.25 lb of Carafa II adds something close to 7 points to SRM in a 5.5 gallon batch. That would throw off a lot of recipes.

[siwelwerd]

I have seen a 1/4 lb of ingredients make the differece between an award winning beer and a middle of the pack beer. You can definately taste it if you know what to look for.

+1. Try a side by side comparison of otherwise identical beers to see what a difference 1/4 lb of the right malt can make.