Specific gravity (SG)
Term from the Brauwerkstatt brewing glossary, category “Measurements and calculations”.
Explanation
Density of the wort compared with water (water = 1.000). Typical wort is around 1.040–1.060. Rule of thumb: the last two digits divided by 4 give roughly degrees Plato, so 1.048 ≈ 12 °P.
Test your knowledge
What is original gravity?
- The alcohol content of the finished beer
- The amount of dissolved solids, mainly sugar, in the wort before fermentation
- The amount of hops per litre
Show answer
Correct: The amount of dissolved solids, mainly sugar, in the wort before fermentation. Original gravity is given in degrees Plato or as specific gravity (SG). Together with final gravity it gives the alcohol.
Related terms
All terms in “Measurements and calculations” · Brewing glossary