In addition to flavor, the character of malt has a large impact on what attribute of beer?

The character of malt plays a significant role in determining the color of beer. Different types of malt undergo varying degrees of roasting, which can lead to a wide range of colors in the finished beer. For example, pale malts usually yield lighter colors, while darker roasted malts contribute to deep, rich browns and blacks. The Maillard reaction during malting and roasting not only affects flavor but also the visual appearance, impacting the overall perception of the beer. Understanding this relationship helps brewers select malts that will achieve the desired color profile, which is crucial in creating a recognizable and appealing product for consumers.

Other attributes, such as carbonation, texture, and aroma, are influenced by a variety of factors beyond just the malt, including yeast, hops, and water chemistry, making them less directly impacted by the character of malt alone.