As an experienced sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that US-05 is not a lager yeast. It is actually an ale yeast. Let me explain in more detail why this is the case.
Firstly, it's important to understand the distinction between ales and lagers. Ales are a type of beer that are fermented at warmer temperatures, typically between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 24 degrees Celsius), while lagers are fermented at colder temperatures, usually around 45 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit (7 to 13 degrees Celsius). This temperature difference greatly affects the flavors and characteristics of the final product.
US-05, also known as Safale US-05 or American Ale Yeast, is a strain of yeast that is commonly used in brewing ales. It is derived from the California Ale Yeast strain and is known for its clean fermentation profile and ability to produce a wide range of beer styles.
I have personally used US-05 in numerous brewing projects, and it consistently delivers excellent results for ales. It ferments relatively quickly, typically within a week or two, and produces a clean and crisp flavor profile with moderate ester and phenol production.
In contrast, lager yeasts, such as the commonly used WLP830 or Wyeast 2124 strains, are specifically selected for their ability to ferment at lower temperatures and produce the characteristic flavors and aromas associated with lager beers. These yeasts typically have a slower fermentation process and produce a cleaner and smoother flavor profile compared to ale yeasts.
To summarize:
– US-05 is an ale yeast, not a lager yeast.
– Ales are fermented at warmer temperatures, while lagers are fermented at colder temperatures.
– US-05 is known for its clean fermentation profile and is commonly used in brewing ales.
– Lager yeasts are specifically selected for their ability to ferment at lower temperatures and produce the characteristic flavors and aromas of lager beers.
If you're using US-05 in your brewing process, you're definitely brewing an ale, not a lager.