First Brew - Need a Little Clarification

I am about to start my first IPA using Thomas Coopers Selection IPA. I have read a lot of conflicting information so I just wanted some clarification. Any suggestions and reccomendations would be greatly appreciated!

1) After pitching my yeast and beginning primary fermentation is it better to use an ale pale with the lid on loosely, or to use a carboy with a stopper. Does oxygen access make a difference?

2) Is secondary fermentation nessecary?

3) This kit is pre-hopped. How much hops are we talking here? Is this just in terms of flavour, or is this bitterness and aroma as well. I have some goldings that I would like to use and i enjoy a very hoppy beer in terms of flavour, bitterness and aroma but I dont want to go over board. Anyone have experience with this kit?

dotes said:

I am about to start my first IPA using Thomas Coopers Selection IPA. I have read a lot of conflicting information so I just wanted some clarification. Any suggestions and reccomendations would be greatly appreciated!

1) After pitching my yeast and beginning primary fermentation is it better to use an ale pale with the lid on loosely, or to use a carboy with a stopper. Does oxygen access make a difference?

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Oxygen access does make a difference, in that you don't want any of it after you pitcht the yeast. However, the choice between a carboy and a bucket is personal preference. An Ale Pale should have a hole and grommet for an airlock so no need to put it on there loosely. Both a bucket and a carboy will keep oxygen out just fine.

dotes said:

2) Is secondary fermentation nessecary?

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Nope.

dotes said:

3) This kit is pre-hopped. How much hops are we talking here? Is this just in terms of flavour, or is this bitterness and aroma as well. I have some goldings that I would like to use and i enjoy a very hoppy beer in terms of flavour, bitterness and aroma but I dont want to go over board. Anyone have experience with this kit?

Click to expand...

Sorry I can't help you here as I've never used that kit or pre-hopped extract in general.

Wow you guys are fast. Thank you very much for the info. My ale pail lid does not fit tightly for some reason so i guess carboy it is! I have heard horror stories about blow back. How can i prevent that?