MannyEdwards
Well-Known Member
I have this Hef I'm working on, started at 11.2 bx, or 1.045. Now, two weeks later, I'm getting ready to bottle on Monday, so I check the brix with my refractometer, do the conversion, and get 7.6 brix, or 1.028.
I thought "uh oh." I started doing some research about fixing a stuck fermentation, and settled on stirring up the yeast and aerating. That's what it said. It made me a little nervous because I know you want to prevent oxidation, but OK. So I hooked up my aerator and continued my research.
First thing I did was dig out my old hydrometer that I hadn't used in 10 years. I got a reading of 1.016, and that's when it hit me -- the alcohol has to be accounted for, because it changes the refractory index of the liquid. Turns out, my corrected conversion of 7.6 brix is 1.018. So I shut off the aerator, prayed I didn't infect the wort, and made the corrections for a couple other batches I have on the line.
I used the refractometer calculator at Brewer's Friend, so I assume it's right. I know it turns out a little weak, at 3.6%, but I plan to call it a Session Hef, and pour two at a time.
Anyway, I hope the aeration doesn't ruin the Hef.
I thought "uh oh." I started doing some research about fixing a stuck fermentation, and settled on stirring up the yeast and aerating. That's what it said. It made me a little nervous because I know you want to prevent oxidation, but OK. So I hooked up my aerator and continued my research.
First thing I did was dig out my old hydrometer that I hadn't used in 10 years. I got a reading of 1.016, and that's when it hit me -- the alcohol has to be accounted for, because it changes the refractory index of the liquid. Turns out, my corrected conversion of 7.6 brix is 1.018. So I shut off the aerator, prayed I didn't infect the wort, and made the corrections for a couple other batches I have on the line.
I used the refractometer calculator at Brewer's Friend, so I assume it's right. I know it turns out a little weak, at 3.6%, but I plan to call it a Session Hef, and pour two at a time.
Anyway, I hope the aeration doesn't ruin the Hef.