FG Question

[AJStank]

I brewed my second batch last weekend, an American IPA from an extract kit from my LHBS. The OG was right on at 1.066. I used the Wyeast 1056 liquid yeast. About 2 days into fermentation I got concerned that the temp was too hot (strip on bucket read 75) so I moved the bucket carefully to a cooler location. Anyways, did a hydrometer reading today and it was right around 1.01-1.015. My instructions indicated the final ABV would be around 6% but what I'm reading now will be a bit higher. Did my high initial fermentation temps screw things up? I tasted the sample and it was pretty good, very hoppy. Is the extra alcohol a sign of an error on my part?

 

[BendBrewer]

No, the yeast ate what was available and it is what it is. You don't have much control of the things that would cause more fermentables while brewing with extracts.

 

[Flywheel]

The higher temp may have made the yeasties a little more active.

 

[FensterBos]

I think you are good; I wouldn't be concerned with 75 F degrees. 80 F degrees would be troublesome.

 

[JLW]

It looks like you are right on target with your gravity. I wouldn't worry about the higher temps. Sometimes you can get an off flavor but recently I had a Black IIPA get to hot 80+ degrees and it turned out fantastic.

I'm sure you made great beer!

 

[AJStank]

Thanks! I wasn't too concerned but I wanted to double check. I guess I can't complain about a higher ABV than I was expecting! This style of IPA is my favorite so I don't want to screw it up.

 

[Vuarra]

You'll know if you've screwed it up if it tastes off. The ABV is just an indicator to me of how many I can have on a school night (not literally, just figuratively).