DME vs LME

[HogieWan]

I know this has probably been discussed at length, but I'd like experienced remarks.

What are the pros/cons of LME or DME. I've been using DME because I get more gravity points per dollar, but not by very much. Is there a benefit of LME I'm missing, should I use some of each?

[shifty brewer]

I just like to use DME because of its ease of use.

[HarkJohnny]

man, this stuff seems EXPENSIVE! I need 12lbs and that's like $35!

[HogieWan]

Yeah - it adds up quick!!!!

[botay]

dme store's longer, I like to keep several diffrent types on the shelf for expermentation.
________
Subaru Leone history (http://www.toyota-wiki.com/wiki/Subaru_Leone)

[wortchillergoal]

I like working with DME. I find it easier to keep it off the bottom and becoming carmelized.

[YamahaXS]

last summer i purchased a 50# box of DME for roughly $2.5/pound. You can fit about 5-6 pounds into a gallon zip[loc bag.

EDIT: sorry DME. bulk for LME can get down to almost a dollar if you buy enough ;)

[BrewDog]

I'm with Shifty, Botay, AND HarkJohnny. It's more expensive and easier to use, and lasts longer. Now that I do only AG, I only use it for starters.

[BluesHarp]

I've heard that DME does not impart as much "extract flavor" as LME, due to the LME having been boiled once already.
I'll have to try an all DME next time to see if I can taste any difference.

I do know my beer is better since I started adding LME only in the last five minutes of the boil.

[HogieWan]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by BrewDog
I It's more expensive and easier to use, and lasts longer. Now that I do only AG, I only use it for starters. [/QUOTE

It's actually cheaper if you figure in how much gravity points you get per dollar. It cost more per pound, but you're not paying for water.

I've been using DME exclusively, but my first batch which was about 50/50, came out the best of all so far. Just trying to duplicate past success and wondering if this is the reason.

[mlsuggs]

Originally posted by BluesHarp
I've heard that DME does not impart as much "extract flavor" as LME, due to the LME having been boiled once already.


Won't deny that you'll get a difference in flavor between the two, but DME is made from LME...

See Munton's Dry Malt Extract (http://www.muntons.com/minibrewing/dried_malt_extract.asp) for details on Munton's process. IIRC, all (or nearly all) of the DMEs are made this way.

I'm moving the direction of BrewDog, and going AG--so extracts are heading towards the "for starters" category. (Also for teaching friends how to brew, but that'd be another thread...)

My $.02. YMMV. NAYYY.

--Misha

[HogieWan]

Originally posted by mlsuggs
I'm moving the direction of BrewDog, and going AG--so extracts are heading towards the "for starters" category.

I understand AG is the way to go, but I won't be able to start that journey until Christmas, I think. I'm looking to capitalize on my situation until then


Originally posted by mlsuggs
Won't deny that you'll get a difference in flavor between the two, but DME is made from LME...

I know there's a difference and am looking to those more experienced to direct me. Should I use both at a certain percentage, use just dry, or use just liquid?

[Fast_Eddy]

My experience has been that DME leaves a little more residual sweetness than does LME.

[HogieWan]

Originally posted by Fast_Eddy
My experience has been that DME leaves a little more residual sweetness than does LME.

This is the info I'm looking for - anything else?