WLP820, also known as Oktoberfest/Märzen Lager Yeast, is a lager strain that is widely used in the brewing industry. This yeast strain is specifically selected for its ability to ferment lagers, which are known for their clean and crisp flavors.
When using WLP820, it is crucial to pitch the yeast into wort that is cooled to a temperature of around 45-55°F (9-15°C). This is because lager strains require lower fermentation temperatures compared to ale strains. By pitching the yeast into cold wort, you create an ideal environment for the yeast to thrive and produce the desired flavors.
It is recommended to aerate the wort well before pitching the yeast. This can be done by vigorously stirring the wort or by using an aeration stone. Aeration helps provide oxygen to the yeast, which is essential for a healthy fermentation process.
Once the yeast is pitched, it will start fermenting the wort and converting the sugars into alcohol and carbon dioxide. It is important to maintain a consistent fermentation temperature throughout the process. For WLP820, the ideal temperature range is usually between 48-58°F (9-15°C). This temperature range allows the yeast to work effectively and produce the desired flavors for a lager beer.
During fermentation, it is common for lager strains to produce a compound called diacetyl, which can give the beer a buttery or butterscotch-like flavor. To reduce diacetyl levels, a diacetyl rest can be performed. This involves raising the temperature of the fermentation to around 65-70°F (18-21°C) for a few days. This rest allows the yeast to clean up the diacetyl and improve the overall flavor profile of the beer.
After the diacetyl rest, the temperature is then lowered to the conditioning temperature. This is typically around 32-45°F (0-7°C) for lagers. Conditioning is an important step in the lager brewing process, as it allows the flavors to mellow and the beer to become more balanced.
It is worth noting that while WLP820 is a popular choice for lagers, there are other lager strains available that may also produce excellent results. Each strain has its own unique characteristics, and brewers often experiment to find the perfect strain for their desired beer style.
WLP820 is a versatile lager strain that can produce clean and crisp flavors when used correctly. By following the recommended fermentation temperatures and performing a diacetyl rest, brewers can achieve the desired results for their lager beers. So, if you're looking to brew a lager, consider giving WLP820 a try and see the amazing flavors it can bring to your beer.
What Is The Best Temperature To Pitch Lager Yeast?
The best temperature to pitch lager yeast is between 48-58 °F (9-15 °C). It is important to ensure that the wort is cold and well aerated before pitching the yeast. This temperature range is ideal for the yeast to ferment and produce the desired flavors and characteristics of a lager beer.
To achieve the best results, it is recommended to pitch the yeast into wort that is within this temperature range. Pitching at lower temperatures helps to control the fermentation process and promote the development of clean and crisp flavors. The colder temperature also helps to reduce the production of undesirable byproducts during fermentation.
Pitching yeast at higher temperatures can lead to off-flavors and potential yeast stress, resulting in a less desirable final product. It is important to maintain a consistent and controlled fermentation temperature throughout the process to ensure the yeast performs optimally and produces the desired lager qualities.
To summarize, the best temperature to pitch lager yeast is between 48-58 °F (9-15 °C). It is crucial to pitch the yeast into cold and well aerated wort within this temperature range to achieve the desired flavors and characteristics of a lager beer.
Conclusion
WLP820 is a lager strain that requires careful temperature control during fermentation to achieve optimal results. It is recommended to pitch the yeast into well-aerated wort that is cooled to a range of 45-55°F (9-13°C). This ensures a healthy fermentation process and the development of lager characteristics in the final beer.
To further enhance the fermentation process, it is advisable to begin the diacetyl rest when the beer is within a few specific gravity points of the target terminal gravity. This involves lowering the temperature to allow for the reduction of diacetyl, a compound that can give off-flavors to the beer if not properly managed.
Most lager strains, including WLP820, perform best within the temperature range of 48-55°F (9-13°C). However, it is worth noting that some strains may exhibit lager characteristics even at slightly higher temperatures.
By following these temperature guidelines and providing adequate aeration, brewers can ensure that WLP820 produces a high-quality lager with the desired flavors and characteristics.
