First Batch Question

[Duke20]

My first batch (Pale Ale) has been fermenting for a few days now and while everything seems to be going well, I did realize that I may have not added enough water to make 5 gallons. I would say it's between 4 and 4 1/2 gallons. After reading several threads on the issue, it sounds like I could add boiled and cooled water to the carboy or just enjoy a little stronger beer. My question is: if I decide to add water, at what point should that be done? When the airlock stops bubbling? At the time of bottling?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!

 

[ATXweirdobrew]

My general thought would be to not add any water after fermentation has started. Even thought you boil it you can run the risk of getting a bacteria infection or doing something else to hurt the otherwise frail yeast fermentation just by taking the fermentration lock off in the middle of fermentation. I would also be afraid that you might get some bad off flavors by adding water after fermentation started. If I were you I would go ahead and take the slighter stronger beer and enjoy its higher alcohol volume Just keep it as is and remember next time to add the extra water before fermentation.

 

[JLem]

Good healthy fermentations are not frail. They can handle quite a lot - and removing the airlock/lid is not a problem. My concern would be adding oxygen into the beer after it ferments - oxidation is not a good thing - produces off flavors and decreases it's storage longevity. If you want to add the water, just be sure not to splash it around - pour it as gently as possible. I would add it sooner rather than later if you go this route.

The only problem with keeping the beer as is, as a stronger version, is that the recipe was designed for a lower ABV beer and it may be out of balance. Might still be good, but it will be different.