Lagering

[sjtravis]

I want to make a lager, but its about 75 where I live and I dont have access to an extra fridge. What temp do lager yeast ferment at? I have read that you can lager if you want to complete the brew. What benefits do you get from lagering the beer for a few weeks? Is there much of a taste difference? I specifically want to make a Classic American Pilsner or a Bud clone for my friends. Thank for any help.
Steve

 

[Mr_Turtlehead]

It's really not possible under the conditions you describe. Lager yeast ferment in the 50'sF to low 60'sF. And then to "lager" would require extended time at temps below 40F. How about a delicious ale?

 

[Walker]

if you can be diligent about it, you can put the fermenter in a constant, iced water bath to maintain proper lager temperatures, but that might be pretty painful to do.

-walker

 

[Ivan Lendl]

yeah your better off making a bohemian pilsner (sam adams)or a shwarze beer or something that isnt as 'delicate' as a bud-type pilsner. lager yeast will work at those temps but they will probably produce alot of off flavors and what not that will really show up in a super-balanced highly corn-adjuncted bud type beer.

you could try the old carboy-in-an-icebath trick but good luck maintaining a constant temp for the 3 months or whatever recomended lagering time is...

just make a good ole pale ale and tell your friends to p*ss off if they dont like it...