What is too cold for lager yeast?

[AmusedBystander]

Hello, I'm new to lagering. Is 40 degrees too low? Also, will the beer take longer to carbonate when I finish it? Thanks for your help!

 

[avidhomebrewer]

For fermentation, you want to stay around 45-50, depending upon the yeast chosen (check preferred temperature on the particular strain you are using). For lagering (different from fermentation), I like to lager around 33 - 35.

 

[AmusedBystander]

thank you; assuming you bottle and not keg... does carbonization take longer longer when the beer is cold than it does at room temp?

 

[ghpeel]

Yeah, there's no reason to store lager bottles at any lower temps than ales. All beers need to bottle condition around 50-65F ideally for a few weeks. If you go colder than that, you'll need to wait a few extra weeks probably. Also, did you lager the beer in a secondary fermentor for more than a few weeks? If so, you might need to add a extra week or three for the bottles to carb up, but they'll still carb just fine.

 

[avidhomebrewer]

I do both. For lagers, I'll bottle them. Yes, carbonation does take longer when it is cold.

When I do a lager, I'll ferment around 45 or so like I said before until it is about 80% complete, as measured by a hydrometer. Then, I'll remove from the fridge and allow to warm to room temp for about 3-4 days for a diacetyl rest. Check gravity again to ensure it is done. When complete, rack and cool down to about 33 or so a degree or 2/day. Keep at that temp as long as you can. This is your lagering phase. After this, warm up to room temp and package.