Batch size question.

[demonx06]

Im thinking of brewing a ris. The batch size is 5.5 gallons and the boil says 4 gallons. My brew pot is only 5 gallons. I don't want to chance a boil over with 4 gallons. Do you think it would change the beer too much if i boiled 3 or 3 and a half and topped it off to 5 and half.

 

[BamaRooster]

Boiling less water than stated in the recipe will work but hop utilization will be less. You will need to boil longer or use more hops to get the desired bitterness from your hops, that was intended by the recipe. With that being said I doubt you will be able to taste the difference between boiling 3.5 and 4 gallons. IMHO I say go for it. I have done the same thing with no ill effects.

 

[BOBrob]

If its an extract kit you are fine. Depending on the yeast (starter) use a blow off tube, I have.....heard ....thats the way to go. Cheers

 

[demonx06]

I'm gonna do a late extract addition to help with hop utilization. How much longer should i boil it. Let's say 20 minutes. Would i do those 20 and then start my 60 minute. Could i just pitch 2 dry packets of yeast. Its only my second batch and im not ready to do a starter. I could but i want to nail down the process better.

 

[demonx06]

Also should i use my 6.5 bucket or split it into two 5 gallon carboys. I WAs considering the carboys so i can bottle one and age the other for a couple months. Oh yea its an old Rasputin clone by the way