Yeast Type Suggestion

[shadz78]

So when I started making mead a few years ago (i've only made a handful of batches over the past few years) I started using Lalvin 71B. As far as I can tell it is OK, but I just came across Lalvin K1-v1116 which, by the reference pictures, is specifically for Mead/Cider/Kombucha. My question is, which one should I use and is there a distinct difference that I would see by using the K1 vs. the 71B?

 

[MightyMosin]

I have a fairly lengthy post about yeast that is linked below. At the end of it are a variety of suggestions for where you might use some specific yeast.

https://www.homebrewtalk.com/threads/my-yeast-notes.703752/

 

[Maylar]

I have a fairly lengthy post about yeast that is linked below. At the end of it are a variety of suggestions for where you might use some specific yeast.

https://www.homebrewtalk.com/threads/my-yeast-notes.703752/

That's as comprehensive a list as I've seen here. People here don't seem to understand the concept of yeast pairing. There's no one yeast that's best for all meads.

As for the OP's question, K1-V makes floral esters that some people dislike. And 71B makes fruity esters that are appropriate for some meads, but it also limits formation of tannins.

 

[shadz78]

That's as comprehensive a list as I've seen here. People here don't seem to understand the concept of yeast pairing. There's no one yeast that's best for all meads.

As for the OP's question, K1-V makes floral esters that some people dislike. And 71B makes fruity esters that are appropriate for some meads, but it also limits formation of tannins.

Since I brew specifically for my own taste, I prefer a more sweet mead than a dry one. Base honey mead is my favorite, though I have made 1 with apples that turned out very tasty. As I stated, I've only used 71B, so, in your opinion, for sweet and/or fruity meads, I should stick with 71B?

 

[Maylar]

By base mead do you mean a traditional (just honey and water)? What kind of honey?

 

[shadz78]

By base mead do you mean a traditional (just honey and water)? What kind of honey?

Yes, traditional honey/water combination. I try to use locally sourced honey. Though, since I now line in NC, I'm dying to make an attempt with the famous purple honey. It's just so expensive.

 

[Maylar]

Rather than using a yeast that makes esters like 71B, I suggest a neutral yeast like Lalvin DV10 that lets the honey play alone.