What is the difference between SRM, EBC and Lovibond?

SRM (Standard Reference Method) and EBC (European Brewery Convention) are both standardised colour scales. EBC = SRM x 1.97. Lovibond is an older scale similar to SRM. Most UK/European recipes use EBC, while American recipes use SRM.

How does the Morey equation work?

The Morey equation (SRM = 1.4922 x MCU^0.6859) converts Malt Colour Units to SRM. MCU = (grain weight in lbs x grain colour in Lovibond) / volume in gallons. For multiple grains, sum all individual MCU values before applying the equation.

What colour value should I enter for my grain?

Use the Lovibond (°L) value from your grain supplier. Common values: Pale Malt 2-3°L, Munich 8-10°L, Crystal 40 40°L, Crystal 60 60°L, Chocolate 350°L, Roasted Barley 500°L.

Does SRM accurately predict the colour I will see?

SRM is a good estimate but actual colour depends on many factors: wort clarity, beer carbonation, glass shape, and lighting. Dark malts in small quantities have less visual impact than the formula suggests. Always treat colour predictions as approximate.

How can I lighten or darken my beer colour?

To lighten: use Pilsner malt instead of pale malt, reduce crystal and roasted malts. To darken: add small amounts of highly coloured specialty malt (Carafa, Midnight Wheat) for colour without significant flavour impact.

BrewCalcs

Colour Calculator — SRM, EBC & Lovibond

Estimate your beer colour in SRM, EBC and Lovibond from your grain bill.

Grain Weight

Total weight of grain in your recipe

Grain Colour

Lovibond rating from your grain supplier

Batch Size

Volume of your batch

How We Calculate This

The Morey Equation

MCU = (Grain lbs x Grain Lovibond) / Volume gallons

SRM = 1.4922 x MCU^0.6859

This non-linear equation accounts for the diminishing colour contribution of dark malts in small quantities. It is more accurate than the simple linear MCU calculation for most brewing ranges.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: 2025-02-20

All calculations are estimates. Always verify values and adjust based on your equipment and ingredients.