Splitting In Secondary

[DANNERx0]

I'm brewing my first batch with more than 2.5 Gallons (Smoked Scotch Ale)

I've 4.25 Gallons (Was trying for 5, but I lost more wanted during the boil)

Right now its in a 7 Gallon bucket for the primary. I've got 2 3-Gallon Carboys that I usually use for the secondary. Should I split the 4.25 gallons into for a secondary fermentation or just keep the batch in the bucket for a single stage fermentation?

 

[CJ-3]

If you're not adding anything like fruit, oak chips, dry hopping, ect...you can certainly skip the secondary if you want to avoid it.

May I ask why you didn't top off after the boil if you boiled off more than you thought you would have?

 

[andy6026]

I'm guessing it was an all-grain batch?

 

[C-Rider]

As CJ-3 said no need for a secondary for that type of ale. Waist of time. Just let it sit till FG is reached and stable and then wait another week for the yeast to clean up the brew.

 

[DANNERx0]

May I ask why you didn't top off after the boil if you boiled off more than you thought you would have?

Mostly because I'm a noob and I didn't think that would make good beer. Any tips/links on how to best top off post-boil?

 

[DANNERx0]

I'm guessing it was an all-grain batch?

Yes, All-grain. Sorry I didn't mention above..

 

[CJ-3]

Mostly because I'm a noob and I didn't think that would make good beer. Any tips/links on how to best top off post-boil?

Keep some water handy when brewing. I keep some in clean milk jugs, but you can also have bottled water if you like.
When you transfer the wort to your fermenter just top off with the water you have on hand and stir with a sanitized spoon.