As an experienced sommelier and brewer, I can provide you with some guidance on how much priming sugar to use per 12 oz bottle. It's important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as it can vary depending on personal preference and the style of beer you are brewing. However, I can share my personal approach and offer some general guidelines.
In the past, I have had good results using approximately 1/2 teaspoon of priming sugar per 12 oz bottle. This measurement has worked well for me and has consistently produced a satisfactory level of carbonation. However, it's important to keep in mind that this is not an exact science, and some experimentation may be necessary to find the perfect amount for your specific batch of beer.
If you find that the carbonation is too high or too low in one batch, you can adjust the amount of priming sugar used in the next batch. For example, if you notice that the carbonation is too high, you can try using slightly less priming sugar, perhaps around 1/3 or 1/4 teaspoon per bottle. On the other hand, if you feel that the carbonation is too low, you can increase the amount of priming sugar, perhaps to 3/4 or 1 teaspoon per bottle.
It's worth mentioning that different beer styles may require different levels of carbonation. For example, lighter and more refreshing styles like pilsners or wheat beers typically benefit from higher carbonation levels, while heavier and maltier styles like stouts or barleywines may be better suited to lower carbonation levels. It's always a good idea to research the specific style you are brewing to get an idea of the recommended carbonation level.
Ultimately, finding the ideal amount of priming sugar for your beer may require some trial and error. It's a process that can be influenced by personal preference, the style of beer, and even environmental factors such as temperature. I encourage you to keep notes and make adjustments as you go along to achieve the desired level of carbonation.
While I have found success with approximately 1/2 teaspoon of priming sugar per 12 oz bottle, it's important to remember that this is not a hard and fast rule. Experimentation and personal preference are key in finding the perfect amount of priming sugar for your specific beer.