Old yeast starter

[Endovelico]

So here is the thing: I have the brewday coming up (Small batch of a low gravity ale - 1.037ish) and the yeast i'm using is relatively old (It's a Liquid WYeast Propagator dating from August '09).

I still want to use this packet, because chances are i'm probably not going to get any fresher liquid packs from my HBS. Anyway, Mr Malty Pitching Rate Calculator is giving me 10% viability, 69 billion cells needed and 3 vials needed for the (1 Liter) starter.

Buying two more packs isn't necessarily an idea that pleases me so i'm wondering if making a larger starter or following up the initial starter with another starter could be an alternative?

 

[toman8r]

Yes, you can just step up your starter with more wort after it is done fermenting.


http://www.maltosefalcons.com/tech/yeast-propagation-and-maintenance-principles-and-practices has some great info.