Suspended particulate matter that prevents light from passing cleanly through a liquid, creating a cloudy appearance. In beer and wine, it is usually caused by proteins binding with polyphenols, though yeast, bacteria, or starch can also be responsible. While some styles are intentionally brewed to remain cloudy, unintended turbidity is considered a quality defect indicating poor filtration, temperature shock, or microbial contamination.
Heard on the job
The bright tank is showing a heavy chill haze, so we need to drop the temperature further and give the finings more time to work.
Insider tip
Chill haze appears when beer is cooled near freezing and disappears as it warms, whereas permanent haze remains visible regardless of temperature.
Also heard as
- turbidity
- cloudiness