Excitement

[TheLodger]

So I was going to ask for tips because I was nervous about my airlock bubbling subsiding, maybe it was time for bottling my first batch of Brown ale.

I was also nervous because while it the airlock was bubbling, I decided to open the lid just to see it. Saw the kraeusen, closed it, that's when the bubbling subsided. Was nervous about whether or not it was time to bottle soon, was nervous that opening it screwed up the batch, that the yeast got scared and decided to stop doing it's thing.

Well today, I decided to actually test the gravity. So I opened it, the kraesusen had subsided, and I ladled in some in the hydrometer case and measured (thanks for helping me out with that,) by the way. We have a 1.020. The kit says we should be aiming for a 1.012-1.010. Sipped some of it, and it tastes great. I can't wait to drink this sucker

I'm glad I decided to let the cool side of my head prevail and measure before jumping the gun. It also gives me some more time to acquire bottles. I'm a very happy newbie brewer today.

 

[robertvrabel]

The reason it probably stopped bubbling right away is because when you opened it, it let out a ton of CO2 through the lid. Thus closing it, it has to build up enough pressure again for it to go through the airlock... and chances are it wouldn't build up enough if it was nearly done.

Any note...good thing you didn't freak out!