Mixing yeast strains (001 + Belgian?)

[dpaulbarrett]

My local homebrew supply shop scoffed at me when I mentioned wanting to try mixing yeast strains. Is this really so crazy? I tried Victory's Moving Parts #3 IPA, which was brewed with "Belgian yeast" and tasted pretty good. I'd also like to try my go-to single-hop pale recipe with a little saison kick, or maybe a Belgian golden. Is it really as simple as pitching two vials and letting it sit?

Thanks.

 

[cuttsjp]

Yes, it really is as easy as pitching two vials of yeast, and often, using two different yeasts can add a really nice complexity to the beer. I would rethink your combination of yeasts though. WLP001 is known for its clean and neutral character, so it will probably weaken the spicy Belgian character. If you want a more tame/delicate Belgian yeast, try the Wyeast Ardennes strain, but if you're looking for complexity, consider combining one of the Trappist strains like WLP500 with a saison or Hefeweizen strain. That's when things get really exciting.