Temp too high?

[RMBrewer14]

I've been fermenting a stout in a 6 gallon better bottle for 2 weeks and just realized that I've kept the temperature too high.

I was using White Labs WLP004 Irish Ale Yeast and the beer has been fermenting between 70-73 the entire time.

Per the White Labs website the optimal ferment temp is between 65-68.

Am I screwed? How will I be able to tell if it's messed up?

 

[tootal]

The key work is "Optimal". Irish ale yeast is not a yeast that gives a lot of esters if fermented warm so you'll be fine. Even a British ale yeast at warmer temps will be fine, they will just leave you some esters that you may or may not like. A true British ale will usually have esters.

 

[NTXBrauer]

I would not expect you to expect any dramatic off flavors within that temperature range. Normally when the fermentation temps are in the higher 70s to 80s, fusel alcohol production will increasing leading to an undesired taste.

Bring your temp down to the 68 degree range for the remainder of the fermentation period, and your beer should be fine. Cheers!