I am brewing my first lager (1 gallon batch) and I've completed 2 weeks at 55 degrees and 3 days at room temp for the diacetyl rest. I've hit my final gravity. Last night I returned it to the fridge and lowered the temp to 35 degrees. I am now realizing that some recommend lowering the temp gradually after the diacetyl rest - like 5 degrees a day until you get to the target 35 degrees. What is the purpose of this and how big an issue is it that I went straight to 35 degrees??
Also, since I am only making a 1 gallon batch, is 30 days enough time at 35 degrees? My recipe says 60 days, but its for a 5 gallon batch. I don't know if a smaller volume requires less lagering time? 2 months is a lot of time to wait for a gallon of beer!!
Thanks in advance for the help and advise. I have learned so much from this community.
Mark
Also, since I am only making a 1 gallon batch, is 30 days enough time at 35 degrees? My recipe says 60 days, but its for a 5 gallon batch. I don't know if a smaller volume requires less lagering time? 2 months is a lot of time to wait for a gallon of beer!!
Thanks in advance for the help and advise. I have learned so much from this community.
Mark