Sierra Nevada Brewing Company, located in Chico, California, is known for their exceptional beers, and the yeast they use plays a significant role in achieving their distinct flavors. The yeast strain they use, often referred to as “Chico,” is a well-known and widely used yeast strain in the brewing industry.
Chico yeast, also known as White Labs California Ale (WLP001), Wyeast American Ale (1056), or Safale US-05, is a versatile yeast strain that has become the go-to choice for many brewers, especially on the West Coast. Its popularity can be attributed to its clean fermentation profile, high attenuation, and ability to produce a wide range of beer styles.
The origins of the Chico yeast strain can be traced back to Sierra Nevada Brewing Company itself. It is believed that the strain was sourced from the brewery's hometown of Chico, California, hence the name “Chico.” Sierra Nevada has been using this yeast strain for decades, and it has played a crucial role in the success and consistency of their beers.
Personally, as a brewer, I have used the Chico yeast strain on numerous occasions, and I can attest to its reliability and performance. It ferments vigorously and consistently, producing a clean and neutral flavor profile that allows the malt and hop flavors to shine through. This makes it an excellent choice for a wide variety of beer styles, including pale ales, IPAs, stouts, and more.
One of the advantages of using the Chico yeast strain is its high attenuation, which means it has the ability to ferment sugars more thoroughly, resulting in a drier and crisper finished beer. This characteristic is particularly desirable in hop-forward styles, as it helps to showcase the hop flavors and aromas without excessive residual sweetness.
Another reason for the popularity of the Chico yeast strain is its ability to tolerate a wide range of fermentation temperatures. It is known to perform well within a temperature range of 60-72°F (15-22°C), making it suitable for both ale and lager fermentation. This versatility allows brewers to experiment with different temperature profiles and achieve different flavor profiles in their beers.
In addition to its fermentation characteristics, the Chico yeast strain also exhibits good flocculation, meaning it has the ability to settle out of the beer after fermentation, resulting in a clear and bright finished product. This can be particularly important for styles that require a clean appearance, such as pale ales and lagers.
The Chico yeast strain used by Sierra Nevada Brewing Company is a highly regarded and widely used yeast strain in the brewing industry. Its clean fermentation profile, high attenuation, and versatility make it an excellent choice for brewers looking to create a wide range of beer styles. Whether you're a homebrewer or a professional brewer, Chico yeast is a reliable and trusted option to consider for your next batch of beer.