Early Starter

[chanson16]

I am planning to brew in a week. I need to do a starter as I have a wyeast pack that is a few months old plus brewing an IPA above 1.060. I have the time to get the starter going today but probably not next weekend.

Are there any issues with doing the starter today, letting it run for 24 hours or so then sticking it in the fridge until next weekend? Then warm to room temp, decant and pitch when done brewing.

Thanks!

 

[flars]

No problem at all. One week is not enough time to lose viability. It will be less than a week since the starter needs time to finish. Let it go 36 hours to make sure it is done.

 

[chanson16]

Thanks. Should I leave it on the stir plate for 36 hours?

 

[flars]

Some people say 18 to 24 hours is enough time for a starter to finish. I go the extra time to be sure. I also start the starter well beforehand so I don't have to rush it. Just an insurance policy.