As an experienced sommelier and brewer, I can tell you that whirlpooling wort is a common practice in the brewing process, but it is not always necessary. Whirlpooling involves creating a circular motion in the wort to help separate the trub (the solid particles) from the liquid, resulting in a clearer wort. However, there are alternative methods to achieve clear wort without relying solely on whirlpooling.
One method is to use a hop spider or a hop bag during the boil. These devices act as a filter, containing the hops and other particulates, preventing them from entering the wort. This can help reduce the amount of trub that needs to be removed through whirlpooling or other methods.
Another option is to use a fining agent, such as Irish moss or gelatin, during the boil. These agents help to coagulate and settle the proteins and other solids in the wort, making it easier to achieve clarity without relying on whirlpooling.
Additionally, some brewers choose to use a counterflow or plate chiller during the cooling process, which can help to separate the trub from the wort as it passes through the chiller. This can eliminate the need for a separate whirlpooling step.
Personal experience has shown me that whirlpooling can be beneficial, especially when dealing with high hop loads or certain beer styles that require a particularly clear wort. However, there have been times when I have opted to skip the whirlpooling step and still achieved satisfactory results.
It's important to note that whirlpooling does require a certain amount of time for the wort to settle, which can add to the overall brewing process. Some brewers prefer to save time by using alternative methods to achieve clarity, especially if they are confident in their ability to control other factors, such as hop and protein management.
While whirlpooling can be a useful technique for achieving clear wort, it is not always necessary. There are alternative methods, such as using hop spiders or fining agents, that can help achieve clarity without relying solely on whirlpooling. Ultimately, the decision to whirlpool or not will depend on the brewer's preferences, the beer style being brewed, and the desired level of clarity.