When it comes to brewing Irish Ale, selecting the right yeast is crucial in achieving the desired flavor profile. Two highly recommended yeast strains for this style are White Labs WLP004 Irish Ale and Wyeast 1084 Irish Ale. Both of these yeasts have proven to be reliable and consistently produce excellent results.
White Labs WLP004 Irish Ale is a versatile yeast that is known for its ability to ferment clean and produce a low-ester profile. It enhances the malt character of the beer and provides a smooth and balanced finish. This yeast is moderately attenuative, meaning it doesn't ferment the beer to a very dry finish. This can be beneficial in Irish Ale, as it helps to maintain some residual sweetness and body in the final product. I have personally used WLP004 in several batches of Irish Ale and have always been pleased with the results.
Wyeast 1084 Irish Ale is another fantastic option for brewing this style. It is known for producing a rich and robust flavor profile, with a slightly higher ester production compared to WLP004. This yeast is also moderately attenuative, which helps to contribute to the smooth and full-bodied mouthfeel associated with Irish Ale. I have used Wyeast 1084 in a few batches of Irish Ale and have found that it adds a nice complexity to the beer, with subtle fruity notes that complement the malt character.
Both of these yeasts are reliable and can produce excellent Irish Ale. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific flavor profile you are aiming to achieve. If you prefer a cleaner and more balanced flavor profile, WLP004 would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for a yeast that adds a touch of complexity and fruitiness to the beer, Wyeast 1084 would be a better option.
In terms of fermentation characteristics, both yeasts perform well at typical ale fermentation temperatures (around 65-70°F). It is important to note that Irish Ale yeast tends to be less flocculent compared to other yeast strains, meaning it may take longer for the yeast to settle out and clear the beer. Patience is key here, as allowing sufficient time for the yeast to drop out will result in a cleaner and clearer final product.
To summarize, both White Labs WLP004 Irish Ale and Wyeast 1084 Irish Ale are excellent choices for brewing Irish Ale. They provide the right low-ester profile and contribute to the desired malt character and mouthfeel of the style. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the specific flavor profile you are aiming for. Experimentation and trying out different yeast strains can also be a fun and educational journey in the world of brewing. Cheers!