Boiling times

[spencer3584]

Just a quick question. When a recipe calls for a 60 min boil, do you start the timer as soon as you put the kettle on high heat or when the first signs of actual boiling occur. I know it's a dumb question, but I'm brand new.

 

[billl]

Not a dumb question. You time from when it starts boiling.

 

[spencer3584]

Thank you.

 

[flars]

You would start the timer when the water begins boiling or when the wort begins to reboil after an addition.
Questions about the details are not bad questions.

 

[kewlceo]

Also good to keep in mind is that the timings are reverse or countdown starting when you reach a boil and ending at "knockout" when you cut off the heat. So, if a recipe says "Kent Goldings 5% AA 5 min" it means to add those hops 5 minutes before knockout.

Cheers,
Rick

 

[unionrdr]

A lot of us call it flame out,but whatever. Times are def counting down from 60 minute start.

 

[IvanTheTerribrew]

Exactly. It's a bit weird to get used to at first but it is where If a recipe says...
Add W at 60
Add X at 30
Add Y at 15
Add Z at 5

It means that once you first hit a rolling boil that's the start of you boil. If you are doing the traditional 60 minute long boil, then you will add W as soon as that first rolling boil starts. Then 30 minutes away from the end you add X. 15 minutes away from the end you add 15... Etc.

I had a buddy of mine who wanted to do his first brew on my setup and I told him he was running the show... He was allllllll off about his times and additions and I had to help him. Good luck!

 

[SeeMont]

Good Question, I have wanting to ask the same question.

Here is another one. Why are some boils 60 minutes and some 90 minutes? I understand reduction of wort but?

 

[billl]

Depends on the style.

For pilsner based beers, the pilsner malt is more prone to DMS issues. A vigorous 90 minute boil ensures that won't be an issue in the finished beer.

For some maltier styles, an extended boil creates some more complicated higher sugar flavors. eg traditionally brewed scottish ales

If you are doing extract, 60 minutes is almost always enough.

 

[SeeMont]

Thanks.