As an experienced sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that Lalvin EC 1118 is an excellent choice for making high alcohol mead. This specific yeast strain is highly regarded in the brewing community for its exceptional qualities that make it ideal for mead production.
1. High Alcohol Tolerance: One of the key reasons why EC 1118 stands out is its remarkable ability to tolerate high alcohol levels. This yeast strain can ferment meads with an alcohol content of up to 18%, or even higher in some cases. This is particularly beneficial for those who enjoy stronger, more robust meads.
2. Wide Temperature Range: EC 1118 is known for its versatility when it comes to temperature tolerance. It can ferment mead in a temperature range of 45-95°F (7-35°C). This flexibility allows for successful fermentation in various climates and seasons, making it suitable for both warm and cool environments.
3. Fast Fermentation: Time is of the essence when it comes to brewing mead, and EC 1118 excels in this regard. It has a reputation for its rapid fermentation process, often completing primary fermentation within a week or two. This can be advantageous for those who prefer a quicker turnaround time or have time constraints.
4. Dominant Fermentation: EC 1118 is a strong and dominant yeast strain, meaning it can outcompete other organisms that may be present in your fermentation vessel. This characteristic helps to prevent the growth of unwanted bacteria or wild yeast strains that could negatively impact the flavor and quality of your mead.
5. Clean and Neutral Flavor Profile: Another advantage of using EC 1118 is its ability to produce a clean and neutral flavor profile. This is especially desirable in mead, as it allows the honey's natural flavors to shine through without any undesirable yeast-derived off-flavors or aromas.
Personal Experience: I have personally used Lalvin EC 1118 yeast in several mead batches and have been consistently impressed with the results. The fermentation process was vigorous and reliable, and the final meads had a smooth and well-balanced alcohol presence. Additionally, the clean flavor profile allowed the unique characteristics of the honey varieties I used to come through beautifully.
Lalvin EC 1118 is an exceptional yeast strain for making high alcohol mead. Its high alcohol tolerance, wide temperature range, fast fermentation, dominant nature, and neutral flavor profile make it a top choice among mead makers. Whether you are a seasoned brewer or a beginner, using EC 1118 can greatly enhance the quality and success of your mead-making endeavors.