Lager Oxygenation

[Phunhog]

Hey HBT,
I usually oxygenate my ales for 1 minute using a sintered stone. This is for 1.050 beer at 70 F. I know lagers require more O2. Would it be better to oxygenate a little longer at 70 F or wait and do it at 45 F. I know the wort will absorb more O2 at a colder temp. What do you guys do?

 

[Brewmasters Warehouse]

I would oxygenate the beer at whatever temp is easier for you. If it is not a big deal to do it at 45 then give the beer some more o2 at 45. The most important thing with a lager is to get your pitch count right so you have enough yeast to do the job. Even lager yeasts are happier at higher temps but to get that clean crisp lager finish you have to have a lot of yeast to ferment your beer at colder temps.

 

[Phunhog]

Thanks...I already have built a big starter for my 11 gallons of Helles. Used a yeast calculator so I should be good there.