Couple of interesting threads on the subject:
http://www.brewunited.com/view_topic.php?topicid=350
https://www.homebrewersassociation.org/how-to-brew/cold-steeping-getting-the-most-out-of-dark-grains/
http://www.thebrewingnetwork.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=&t=25260
I get questions about my water profiles all the time. (hundreds not millions.) I think a lot of people ask thinking that's the one thing that's keeping their beers from being exactly like mine. My hoppy beer profile works well for...
There are a number of Munich Malts from various maltsters, each having their unique flavor contribution.
Looking at my recipes, 10% seems to be typical. If you used Gambrinous, it's one of the darkest versions and 25% would be a strong amount. The good news is you know what to do in the next batch.
Just got a six here in Tampa; Opened/poured a tulip glass full... Very danky! The dank subsides or maybe my nose can't smell it after a while. Columbus??
Process and numbers sound good. Most likely the US-04 and 152 mash temp. Just brewed a double IPA with S-04 for the first time in ages; It's a little sweet. A drier result requires a lower mash temp and possibly a more attenuating yeast. US-05 has 81% attenuation where US-04 is 75%. Carbonation...
You are not alone in your observations about the taste of this beer 'in bottles". The product is not exactly the same from batch to batch and changes as it ages. It's good to check the bottled date and stay with fresh product. I've had draft at the Restaurant in Rehoboth and it's a bit drier...
Crystal 75 is entirely different from Amber malt not to mention Thomas Fawcett. The grain mix you have will produce a beer more like S.N. Celebration, not bad actually; But not what you want. Can't believe they didn't suggest another Amber malt! Like Jammin said: Rather than wasting the grain...
Hey Donnie-
Did you check your F.G?? Give it some time. I have several medals from beers that I thought I would have to throw away!
A beer like this requires a few weeks to a month after fermentation to fully mature.