Got some free expired yeast

[Sansnom]

I bought a grain mill from an online store and when I opened the package, I found 4 packages of Danstar Abbaye ale yeast with a note that said "free expired yeast"

The date code is for this month. I have used yeast that was a month from the date code without issue, so I can't imagine why this stuff wouldn't work, assuming that it was stored properly.

The only thing is, I'm not sure what to do with it. I brew mainly dark ales, IPAs and pale ales. Does anyone have any recipes that might go good with this yeast? I'd rather not waste it. I did a search on the forum, I didn't see much discussion about it. From the description on the danstar website, it looks like a yeast that has a lot of "flavour"

What should I do with it?

 

[thehaze]

I believe the yeast would still be good, provided it was stored cool and in proper conditions.

You could try to brew either a Belgian Pale Ale, Golden ale or even a Tripel, but seeing you brew dark ales, use it in a dark belgian.

Something like Pilsner, Munich, Special B/W ( Special W is from Weyermann ), some Chocolate or Pale Chocolate malt and some Dark Candy Syrup. Belgian yeast can be underpitched in order to force the yeast to give more esters and giving the age of the yeast, you will probably achieve that, as the yeast cell count must be much lower than when it was fresh.

Ferment warmer and you should be fine.

So I would say brew with it.

 

[IslandLizard]

Dried yeast is almost indestructible, but it keeps best in the freezer. With proper rehydration before pitching more cells will survive. Follow the manufacturer's rehydration instructions.

A Dark Belgian sounds right for this yeast as would any other Belgian.

 

[Sansnom]

Dark Belgian sounds really intriguing. I've never had one before. I guess I should search for some recipes!

 

[thehaze]

Dark Belgian sounds really intriguing. I've never had one before. I guess I should search for some recipes!

Then I would recommend searching for a Pannepot clone or any Old Fisherman's Ale recipes, which is the same. You can add some spices in the boil, etc. The grain bill I gave you above should get you there, with a choice of your own spices.

But I love Pannepot and I love Belgian Dark Strong ales ( usually high ABV ).

You will definitely like it. :rockin: