First batch of 2008!

April 5, 2008

I did my first batch of the year today, and I think it came out really well.  I used 3.5 lbs. of extra light bulk malt extract, 3.5 lbs. of wheat bulk malt extract, and 3.3 lbs. of Breiss Sparkling Amber malt extract, along with Mt. Hood, Cascade, Fuggles, and Willamette hops.  Topping all that was a two-day yeast starter made with Wyeast 1056 American Ale liquid yeast, pitched at 80F.  I ended up with a temperature-adjusted OG of 1.0865.  I’m hoping I can break the 8% mark, not because I want to consistently make a big beer like that, but becauseit’s a matter of pride.

But here’s a helpful hint: when it comes time to aerate your starter one last time before pitching, swirl it.  Do not, under any circumstances, cover the stopper hole and shake hard, or you’ll be cleaning your kitchen–specifically the ceiling and floor–like I’m in the process of doing.  I really don’t know what I was thinking.  Duh.

Posted in Brewing