Yeast Starter.

[AdamCharles]

Hello everyone. I'm on my third batch of home brew, a Belgian Strong Ale with an OG of 1.077 and projected TG of 1.017. I'm aiming for around 7% abv in the end here. My question is this!:

I'm only using a fermenting bucket with no oxygenation capabilities and the guy at the local brew store said that this was on the high end of alcohol content that I could achieve without such a system. He sold me 2 Wyeast smack packets and said that the extra yeast would help. He also said to make a starter with the yeast. I am using a syrup malt extract and everything I've read about making yeast starters uses powdered extract what can I do to make a yeast starter, and if I am already using double the yeast is a starter even neccessary? I would love for you all to say that I don't need to make another trip to the store to get more malt extract, but what has to be done has to be done.

Thanks in advance,
Adam

 

[HairyDogBrewing]

Try this:
Mr Malty Pitching Rate Calculator
2 vials at that gravity is much better than 1.
I would go with that this time.
Next time use one vial to make a 2qt starter.

 

[alpo]

You are probably fine. I wouldn't worry about it. In the future, you should make a yeast starter. It is easy and a lot cheaper than buying double the yeast.

 

[ifishsum]

You can make starters with liquid extract, just use 15-20% more than you would with dry.

With 2 healthy packs you should be fine and might as well use them. In the future, making a starter with only one pack will give you more yeast than direct pitching two, and it's cheaper. You just have to plan ahead a day or two.

If you're topping off, use bottled water from the store and shake the jugs well before pouring, it helps with oxygenation of your wort.

 

[sparkyaber]

also, run your wort through a strainer into the carboy, it will clear your beer, and add air to the wort.