When it comes to brewing a New England IPA (NEIPA), selecting the right yeast is crucial to achieving the desired hazy and juicy characteristics. While there are specific yeast strains developed for this style, such as M66 Hop Head Ale yeast, there are other options that can also produce excellent results.
One alternative yeast strain that I highly recommend is M36 Liberty Bell. This yeast is known for its ability to produce fruity esters and enhance hop flavors, making it a great choice for NEIPAs. I have personally used M36 Liberty Bell in several NEIPA batches and have been impressed with the results. The yeast contributes a pleasant tropical fruit aroma and a smooth mouthfeel, which are key components of the style.
Another yeast strain that works well for NEIPAs is M42 New World Ale. This yeast is known for its high attenuation and ability to produce clean, crisp flavors. While it may not contribute as much fruitiness as M36 Liberty Bell or M66 Hop Head Ale, it still produces a clean and balanced profile that complements the hop-forward nature of NEIPAs. I have found that M42 New World Ale allows the hop flavors to shine through without overpowering them with yeast-derived flavors.
In terms of personal experiences, I have experimented with different yeast strains for NEIPAs and have found that M36 Liberty Bell and M42 New World Ale are reliable choices. The fruity esters produced by M36 Liberty Bell add complexity to the beer, while the clean profile of M42 New World Ale allows the hop flavors to take center stage. Both yeasts have consistently delivered satisfying results in terms of haze, juiciness, and overall flavor.
When selecting a yeast for NEIPAs, it's important to consider the specific characteristics you want in your beer. If you're looking for intense hop flavors and a more pronounced fruitiness, M66 Hop Head Ale yeast may be your best bet. However, if you prefer a cleaner profile that allows the hop flavors to shine, M36 Liberty Bell or M42 New World Ale would be excellent choices.
Ultimately, the choice of yeast for a NEIPA depends on personal preference and the specific flavor profile you're aiming to achieve. It's worth experimenting with different strains to find the one that best suits your tastes.