To add to the continuing series of the Bohemian Pilsner brew log and the overarching Master of Lagers post series, I am posting the first update of the Bohemian Pilsner fermentation.
I was on the west coast on business last week so I didn’t really know how the ol’ pilsner was doing until I got back. When I left the house on Monday morning, the first signs of fermentation were visible but it certainly wasn’t vigorous.
When I got back, I had a nice krausen going and it appeared the temperature in the fridge was on target.
I love it when a plan comes together, even if I am not there to see it happen.
The plan now is to leave it alone for at least another 5 days (going for the full 14 days in primary). Now, the plan is to let Mike use this yeast left over from this brew if he so chooses so we’ll have to coordinate brew sessions.
I am happy so far with this brew. We’ll see how the transfer goes.
Lauren
Did you notice any sulfur smell when you opened your fermenter fridge? I used wlp802 recently, and it had a sulfur smell only for about 2 days, basically a very clean and fast fermentation time.
How long do you plan to lager this? I’ve heard 2 weeks is plenty, but I’m doing a month in the kegerator.
Lastly, do you plan to clear in the keg? Using polyclar, or gelitin, or are you just going to let it cold crash by itself?
Sorry for all the questions, but the last lager I did using the 802 came out fantastic, and it’s got me jazzed up to try some more. Everything came together fast, and it’s a very drinkable beer even after 2 weeks lagering.
John
I didn’t pick up any sulfur scents with the WLP800 strain. I have had other lager yeast that stunk like rotten eggs when I made a starter and fermented them at room temps. My wife was not pleased.
I plan to lager it for at least 4 weeks. When I have done lagers in the past, I usually go 7 to 8 weeks in the secondary in the fridge at 33-34°F. I guess I could go for a short haul, but that leads me to my next answer about why I do take the time.
I haven’t had to use a clearing agent for a lager (yet). I have had good luck with it clearing during lagering so there hasn’t been any need for gelatin or polycar.