Yeast for Munich Helles

**bradsul** · 06-15-2009, 08:02 PM

I need to do a lager for a party at the end of August and I feel like a Helles. I am trying to decide between Wyeast Munich Lager (2308) and Wyeast Bohemian Lager (2124). Wyeast suggests the Bohemiam Lager but I'm torn because I have the Munich Lager yeast in the fridge already.

I have no problem ordering the Bohemiam yeast, just wondering if I can save the $20 and go with the Munich yeast. Does anyone have any experience/preference either way?

menschmaschine · 06-15-2009, 08:08 PM

I recommend Saflager W-34/70 to forego the hassle of a starter. It's allegedly the same strain as Wyeast 2124 (and, therefore WLP830). I've made a German Pils with it that is fantastic and just brewed a Helles with it that is near the end of primary. Use 2 packs per ~5+ gallons and follow the Fermentis instructions for re-hydration... and pitch cold.

I used to use WLP830 (2124) for all my Helles, but have switched to this dry yeast because it tastes the same to me.

EDIT: Sorry, just re-read your post. I never used it but I'm sure the 2308 would make a fine Helles since you already have it.

**Reverend JC** · 06-15-2009, 08:11 PM

I have used the 34-70 yeast with great success in huge batches and would not in a minute hesistate to use it on 10-15 gallons.

**bradsul** · 06-15-2009, 08:17 PM

Unfortunately I can't get those dry yeasts.

I'd have liked to skip the starter since I have no DME on hand.

**944play** · 06-15-2009, 08:18 PM

2308 seems like the 1968 of lager yeasts: useful, friendly, flocculent, and low-attenuating. I'd say if you're going big for style, get the drier (attenuating) yeast.

My 1.055 Dortmunder with 2308 was definitely on the sweet side. A 1.043 Vienna with 2308 was just right.

**bradsul** · 06-15-2009, 08:22 PM

I use 2308 for my Munich Dunkel and it is excellent so I have no complaints with the yeast itself. I was just curious how well it would work with a much more delicate Helles. Sounds like it will work pretty well so it would be worth the try.

**bradsul** · 06-21-2009, 06:38 PM

Well I'm about halfway through sparging right now. Turns out it will be more of a golden helles than a straw coloured one. I thought I had some carapils in stock but I was mistaken. Used about 4% light munich instead. I considered going with 100% pilsener malt but I don't have time to do a decoction like I'd want to with that grist.

**bradsul** · 06-21-2009, 08:53 PM

My first brew in a few months so I lowered my efficiency calculations figuring I'd be rusty. I guess it's like riding a bike though because I hit my usual numbers and got 90%. So I overshot my target OG but only by 4 points and it's still within the style. This isn't exactly a bitter beer so I hope it won't be too noticeable but it should still be tasty, the hydrometer sample was delicious!

menschmaschine · 06-21-2009, 10:20 PM

Sounds great! Now only 8-10 weeks until you can drink it.

I just transfered my Helles to lagering today. 6 weeks to go!... well more like 7 to give it a week in the keg.

**bradsul** · 06-21-2009, 11:10 PM

Gotta love the wait.

That's why my next brew is a Mild. At 3 weeks it's good to go!