In Part 2 of The Craft Equation, we dive deep into the real science behind hazy IPAs — not just what they look like, but what physically and chemically makes haze form, stay suspended, and remain stable from tank to package.
Joined by Chris Baker, Director of Brewing Operations at Mother Earth Brew Co., we break down the technical side of haze formation: protein–polyphenol interactions, wheat and oat percentages, dextrin malts, yeast strain selection, and why heavy dry hopping plays a bigger role than most brewers think.
We also talk through the lessons we learned the hard way — early beers that cleared up, the “snow globe” effect, and the process changes that helped us dial in consistent, shelf-stable haze across our Project X Series.
You’ll learn about:
• Chill haze vs. permanent haze
• Protein + polyphenol chemistry
• Wheat, oats, and dextrins for mouthfeel and stability
• Hot side hopping vs. dry hopping strategy
• Fermentation dry hopping + biotransformation
• Yeast impact on haze (including Imperial A38 “Juice”)
• Finding agents, centrifuging, and packaging consistency
• Why some brewers still prefer West Coast IPAs
We crack open our latest Project X hazy and walk through the real-world process decisions that shape what ends up in your glass.
If you’re brewing hazy IPAs — or just want to understand what’s actually happening inside them — this one’s for you.
Timestamps:
00:00 Intro + cracking beers
01:00 Motor Skills hazy IPA + hop combo
02:00 What “haze” actually is
03:30 Protein–polyphenol chemistry explained
05:00 Wheat, yeast, and permanent haze
07:00 Early haze problems + “snow globe” effect
09:00 Hot side vs dry hop strategy
10:30 Yeast strain impact (A38 / Juice)
12:00 Recipe design: wheat, oats, dextrin malts
14:00 Dry hopping and biotransformation
16:00 Finding agents + centrifuging
18:00 Packaging + carbonation considerations
22:00 Why brewers debate hazy vs West Coast
27:00 Final thoughts
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🎧 Don't forget to check out Part 1 in The Science of Haze where we discuss stylistic nuances of various hazy beers and the history of the style.
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🌐 Website: https://www.motherearthbrewco.com
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About The Craft Equation
The Craft Equation explores the intersection of brewing science, business, and culture through conversations with industry professionals, brewers, creators, and thought leaders shaping the world of craft beer.
