Coopers Dark Ale kit

[wilfw]

I've Just ordered a Coopers Dark Ale kit and 1kg of dark DME, I have a packet of Coopers Brew enhancer number 2 sitting on the shelf. I was wondering what is best to add to the kit to keep the ABV to around 4.5 to 5.0, should I use all the DME and all the BE2? or a combination of the two in varying quantities? I'm only on my 3rd brew at the moment so a complete novice. Any advice would be appreciated.

[PB2]

Welcome to the Brewers Guild, Wilfw!

 

A 1.7kg beer kit + BE2 in 23litres will produce a beer around the 4.4 to 4.8 'ish mark, %ABV.

 

If you want the brew to finish darker than our commercial Dark Ale, try 500g of the dark DME and 500g of BE2.

[wilfw]

Thankyou for that info, so would 500 grams of the dark DME and 500 of the BE2 still produce between 4.4%and 4.8% ABV, as that is just about what I'm after along with a medium to full body and balanced malty/Hop flavor and nice dark colour?

 

[PB2]

Yes, but if you want hop favour you will need to add hops...

[wilfw]

Yes, I do like hop flavour, can you advise a suitable variety and quantities how best add to the brew?,I don't want overkill just a balance between malt and hop.

[PB2]

Many varieties will suit this recipe. You could try dry hopping with Cascade hop pellets - 15g to 30g depending on how much you like late hop character.

[wilfw]

Many thanks for the advice, I'll probably give that a try. Cheers.