OG/FG what could they be telling me?

[Chefflahertycec]

I have a few brews under my belt but my most recent trip to the LHBS had me leaving with a much needed Hydrometer.... I brewed a IPA with an OG of approx 1.073 ( recipe called for 1.074 but I may have read the meniscus wrong) After 13 days in primary and a vigorous fermentation I have landed with an FG of 1.010 stable after 2 readings 3 days apart. Recipe called for an FG of 1.012. My question for educational purposes is..... What is the reason for the FG being lower than expected? My temps and brew process were good with the exception of having to do a longer boil to hit OG with no loss in final 5.5 gal volume. I guess what I am wondering is, could this be an issue of "efficiency" ? Also with my readings, it's putting this brew at 8.27% ABV which seems high to me for an IPA (not 2X) . Thoughts????

 

[HappiBrew]

All grain, partial mash or extract? Could be several things at play including the fermentability of your wort. Which even with extract, can very just slightly enough to throw you off a point or 2. Which really isn't much. Seems like your hitting really close to your numbers. 8.3% does seem high for an ipa but the recipe called for it to finish at just over 8. So you're not that far off from your target there either. I prefer a smaller IPA my self though.

 

[Pkrd]

Those numbers are really close to your targets.
RDWHAHB!

 

[taoisilent]

I'm always happy if my OG is +/- 2-3 points. Many factors can affect OG, mash temp, sparge method, boil volume, length of boil, etc.

Many other factors can affect FG, too. Type of yeast used, health and quantity of yeast, fermentation temperature, aeration, and of course, the whim of the Beer Gods.

I'm also happy with +/- 2-3 points on FG, but it is what is is, and I usually make good beer

Things to remember when using a hydrometer is the temperature of your sample. It's more accurate at room temperature, but most hydrometers come with a temperature correction chart.

 

[Chefflahertycec]

Thanks for all your input... Although fresh at the craft, I prefer the control of AG brewing. I have never attempted an extract brew. So it is an AG brew. My readings were taken at aprox 62f. across the board. I do agree... I wasn't looking for such a "big" IPA but it should get me through till my next Dark mild matures for a session beer. I'll just drink less.... I figured that I was on target with the brew. Was just kind of shocked when I ran ABV numbers and wanted thought I would get a lesson on efficiency. Thanks....

 

[Chefflahertycec]

Oh and forgot to mention, US 05 yeast hydrated. She roared. Neededa blow off set up 1 day in..... was done with visible signs of fermentation ( air lock/ blow off) in 8 days. @ 65f... I am currently batch sparging sometimes twice....