Description
Kykeon was brewed by malting barley, mashing at moderate temperatures, and allowing spontaneous fermentation by wild yeasts and bacteria.
Technical
During malting, barley grains are soaked and dried to activate α‑ and β‑amylase enzymes, which later hydrolyze starches into maltose and glucose during the mash. The resulting sugars are then fermented by ambient Saccharomyces yeasts and lactic‑acid bacteria, producing ethanol, CO₂, and lactic acid, giving the beverage a low alcohol content and mild sourness.
Science
Primary Reaction
Starch saccharification by amylases followed by alcoholic and lactic acid fermentation
Sensory Profile
Aroma ()
earthymaltysourhazylighttoasted barleyfermented grain
Origin & History
Civilization