What does the Standard Reference Method (SRM) measure?

The Standard Reference Method (SRM) is a system that specifically measures the color of beer. It provides a standardized way to quantify the color intensity, which can range from pale straw to dark brown and black. The SRM scale involves measuring the absorbance of light through a beer sample, allowing brewers and consumers to understand the visual characteristics of the beer they are assessing.

Identifying the color is significant because it can influence perceptions of flavor and style, and it plays an important role in the overall aesthetic experience of drinking beer. Variations in SRM can help differentiate between different types of beer, like pale ales, stouts, and lagers, based on their expected appearance. Thus, the SRM is an essential tool in quality control and the brewing process.