trouble carbonating due to high final OG?

[RandyBoBandy]

After 2 weeks in the primary and 1 week dry hop in the secondary, I bottled a five gallon batch of Stones 15th anniversary black IIPA clone using 5oz priming sugar stirred throughly. I haven't had an issue with carbonation with other ales in the past using the same method. (Usually 7-10 days is sufficient) I absolutely nailed the OG of 1.103 However, with such a HUGE beer I did fall short on the FG with ths one. Target was 1.023 and my reading on bottling day was 1.034. (likely due to insufficient 1 liter starter?) Three weeks after bottling and only the slightest "pssst" when i pop one open. Even after a vigorous pour, no head to speak of. I am assuming the high FG is the culprit here. To my understanding all beer will "eventuality carbonate" on their own, but being an IPA at heart, naturally i would prefer to experience this beast as soon as possible. My question: Is there a precautionary measure to aid carbonation when you fall this short of your target FG, or is patience the key?

 

[mdindy]

high gravity beers take much longer to carbonate, I would leave it for at least 3 weeks. also I would make sure your carbonating at the proper temp which will make a much bigger difference with a beer like that.

 

[Subdivisions]

I agree with mdindy. Move them somewhere in the low to mid 70s and let them go another month. Yeast get beat up by high alcohol and won't work as quickly.

As far as your FG. Your 1 liter starter was most likely too small for that batch. Try to go at least 2 liters or more for such a big beer next time. It'll all work out though.

 

[RandyBoBandy]

Thanks guys.