I've brewed a beer og 1.082 and am using Czech pilz yeast. It is currently fermenting at 53 degrees and am hoping the fermentation will be complete after 2-3 weeks at which time I will raise the temp up to 60 degrees for 2 days or so for diacetyl rest. I've read that there is no need to rack the beer to a secondary before I cool down for the lagering period, which will be for 3 months while I'm out of town. Just seeking any input, as I would hate returning to a subpar beer. Thanks
Advice on lagering
- Thread starter Brewvy
- Start date
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You still need to get it off that yeast cake cold or not. I like to transfer after the D rest to bring the higher attenuating yeast with, only done it this way so no proof that it's better or worse.
If you have a keg, carboy with a closed bung or other closed vessel to transfer to then go ahead and transfer it after D-rest. You're not going to want to leave it on the yeast for 3 months and you don't want to expose it to more oxygen than you have to.
BlueHouseBrewhaus
Well-Known Member
You don't need 2 - 3 weeks before your d-rest. Once the gravity is 80% of the way to FG (~7 - 10 days) you can start your d-rest. Reach your FG and then lager. And, yes, get it off the yeast for lagering. If you have some CO2, you could give the headspace a shot after you transfer just for good measure. Otherwise, don't sweat it. I've never had oxidation (knock on wood) from lagering.
