Harvesting Conan from old cans

Hey all,

I just discovered 2 cans of Heady Topper that I picked up from the brewery in late December 2012. I forgot I had them and thus they have been sitting in my fridge for ~8 months. I've been reading up on harvesting Conan from Heady cans and I'm wondering if it's worth trying given how old these guys are--will the yeast still be viable? Are there any special considerations I should take given that the cans are old?

Thanks!

You forgot that you had some Heady Topper?

Yea, seriously, that's a crime. Anyway, I would definitely give it a shot. Do both cans at once, and start with 1.020 starter wort before stepping it up. Stir plate if you have it.

I successfully cultivated Conan from around 9 month old HT (don't ask), so it is possible!

There is only one way to find out, try it out. I think you will be perfectly fine, mine take a little longer to get going but I think it will wake up.

Thanks for the advice! I've been making starters for a while but have never stepped one up. Any thoughts on a good schedule? How much wort would I start with at 1.020? Would I then jump up to 1.040 for the next step (or two)?