Recent content by BSEC

The temps in my fermentation closet are pretty consistent at 67-68 nights and 69-72 during the day. I also thought the temps might be part of the problem so I put a brew belt on with a timer that could be set in 15 minute increments. This has kept the brew at a steady 70 for 4 weeks. I also...

The German Altbier and California Pale Ale were Brewers Best kits. Both used dry yeast. The kit I got from Midwest used a liquid yeast and turned out wonderful. If carbonation is the result of yeast converting sugars wouldn’t that indicate yeast activity? I thought the lack of...

I kegged the Altbier at 1.022. It’s not bad. Slight soap aftertaste and doesn’t have a ton of mouthfeel. However it was a partial boil beer and I made it so I still enjoy drinking it. The California Pale Ale is still behaving oddly. I racked it to a secondary after two weeks in the primary...

Well… The nutrients did nothing to rouse the yeast. Four days later I was still at 1.022. One of the folks at Midwest suggested pitching champagne yeast so I thought I’d give that a try. Six days later I’m still at 1.022. I’m guessing that’s where it’ll stay. The California Pale Ale that was...

Alrighty... I pitched in some yeast nutrients. I’ll wait and see if the yeast takes the bait. I aerated the snot out of the California Pale Ale. That filled up the headspace in a 6.5 carboy, blew over, and 4 days later is still going at it. I didn’t manage to get out of Midwest without...

nosmatt... The IPA is cooking along well. The batch I'm having an issue with is the German Altbier. 3.3lbs Plain Light Malt Extract 3.3lbs Plain Amber Malt Extract 12oz. Crushed Crystal Malt 60L 1oz Crushed Black Patent 1oz Cluster Hops 1/2oz Vangaurd Hops Thanks! Brad

Fermentation environment is 68°F. At the peak of fermentation the carboy temp hit 74° for half a day but for the most part has stayed between 68° and 72°. On a side note... It tastes and smells great! :)

Ack... My first post is an "I broke my beer" post.:( So… I had water in the basement a few months back and while cleaning the mess came across my copy of The New Complete Joy of Home Brewing (first edition). This prompted a run to the brew and grow store and restarted my interest in...