When it comes to brewing Scottish Ales, the yeast strain that I highly recommend is Wyeast's Scottish Ale yeast. This particular strain originated from the McEwan's brewery and has been used traditionally in Scottish style ales for many years.
One of the reasons why this yeast is so well-suited for Scottish Ales is its versatility. While it is commonly used in Scottish Ales, it can also be used in a wide range of beer styles due to its unique characteristics.
One of the most important qualities of this yeast is its high alcohol tolerance. This means that it can ferment beers with a higher alcohol content, which is often desired in Scottish Ales. The higher alcohol content adds complexity and depth to the beer, giving it a rich and full-bodied flavor.
Another great characteristic of Wyeast's Scottish Ale yeast is its high flocculation. Flocculation refers to the yeast's ability to clump together and settle at the bottom of the fermentation vessel after fermentation is complete. This is particularly important in Scottish Ales, as the beer style typically calls for a clear and bright appearance. The high flocculation of this yeast ensures that the beer will have a clean and professional-looking appearance.
I have personally used Wyeast's Scottish Ale yeast in several batches of Scottish Ales, and I have always been impressed with the results. The yeast performs consistently and reliably, producing beers with a smooth and malty flavor profile that is characteristic of the style.
In addition to Scottish Ales, I have also used this yeast in other beer styles such as stouts and porters with great success. The versatility of this yeast allows it to bring out the best flavors in a wide range of beer styles, making it a great choice for any brewer looking to experiment with different recipes.
Wyeast's Scottish Ale yeast is my top recommendation for brewing Scottish Ales. Its versatility, high alcohol tolerance, and high flocculation make it a reliable and excellent choice for brewers of all levels of experience. Whether you're a homebrewer or a professional brewer, this yeast is sure to help you create a delicious and authentic Scottish Ale.