ClearSpirits
Member
Hey guys, I have a doppelbock in the first few days of primary fermentation in my basement right now. The original plan was to store it out back as the temperatures looked ideal for trying my first lager this time of year, but my OG was low and my friend I was brewing with recommended keeping it closer to 60 during primary fermentation so it would have a faster start. I think this was good advice as fermentation took 72+ hours to show visible signs, and I ended up pitching two extra packs of yeast because I didn't realize originally how many more cells are necessary for a lager compared to an ale. Now I've had a few days of healthy fermentation though and the wort has been kept at a consistent range of 60-65.
My plan was still to move it out of my basement and into the backyard after primary fermentation dies down, but now I have another concern. The forecast right now is calling for lows in the mid 20s next week. What will do more harm to the bock, leaving it in the basement at higher temperatures than normal for a lager, or leaving it out back where it risks dropping too low? I know that one of the benefits of lager temperatures is that it mellows out alcoholic flavors, which is something I'm particularly concerned with doing a doppelbock. And y'know, I was just excited to lager a beer for a change of pace. But I'm starting to think my basement, which is consistently cool and won't fluctuate in temperature drastically, may be more ideal?
My plan was still to move it out of my basement and into the backyard after primary fermentation dies down, but now I have another concern. The forecast right now is calling for lows in the mid 20s next week. What will do more harm to the bock, leaving it in the basement at higher temperatures than normal for a lager, or leaving it out back where it risks dropping too low? I know that one of the benefits of lager temperatures is that it mellows out alcoholic flavors, which is something I'm particularly concerned with doing a doppelbock. And y'know, I was just excited to lager a beer for a change of pace. But I'm starting to think my basement, which is consistently cool and won't fluctuate in temperature drastically, may be more ideal?