Cigar For Lighter Beer Styles

[rodwha]

West coast IPAs are very dry. Mashed real low and many times brewed with a grist of just base malt to help dry the beer out.

How low of a mash temp is typically used? I've generally pushed for about 153* and I use about 5% crystal malts for color and a mild flavor contribution, though initially I was using about 15%.

[HIM]

How low of a mash temp is typically used? I've generally pushed for about 153* and I use about 5% crystal malts for color and a mild flavor contribution, though initially I was using about 15%.

90min mash at 148-150f does well. 152f is sort of the compromise for alpha and beta amylase with the former working at higher temps and the latter at the lower end of the sachh range. While the beta will work at lower temps it takes longer without the alpha helping chop up the starches so a longer mash is needed for full conversion.
I think your spot on with the crystal though. 5% is a good amount to help with color and head retention without adding much in the way of body.

Back on topic of the OP... I think lighter sticks should pair well with lighter flavored beers. While a west coast pale is pretty light I'd say they're big on flavor and can easily dominate a milder stick. But something less assertive like a blonde, hef, cream, or a helles lager are probably easier to balance if the two profiles go well together.