Hello all,
So I brewed this bock on 1/28. Pitched rehydrated packet of dry yeast to aerated wort at approx 65 F. Unfortunately, I do not remember what yeast it was, because I do not have the packet anymore; mistake #1. I believe it was a 6 oz packet, and it was in fact lager yeast.
This particular yeast said it should be ferment at 53 - 59 F for optimal results; it's sitting at approx 55 F in primary. From what I could observe, and I haven't taken a SG reading because it's only been 4 days, fermentation has been slow and sluggish. It took roughly 72 hours to notice anything, and that was after I warmed it up some to 60sh and roused the yeast a little after seeing no visible signs of fermentation. After I did that, I did see some bubbling, and felt pressure on the lid of the bucket. I placed it back in it's spot where it sits around 53 - 55 F. Hindsight, my concerns are: (1) perhaps I should have pitched two packets of yeast, especially since it seemed like I used a lot of extract (2 qts LME, DME). The kits only came with one yeast packet. Also didn't mention anything about using a starter - it actually said to pitch dry. I rehydrated and pitched.
(2) Looking ahead, what if I do not get down to my FG? (OG = 1.068). Is it ok to repitch 2-3 weeks after brewing if needed? I bought some yeast activator but did not use it after realizing this brew should not need it - there should be plenty of food for the yeasties. I am kind of worried I may not have enough cells.
Perhaps I am worrying too much. Any input would be appreciated. Ultimately, I guess I won't know anything until I take a SG reading.
So I brewed this bock on 1/28. Pitched rehydrated packet of dry yeast to aerated wort at approx 65 F. Unfortunately, I do not remember what yeast it was, because I do not have the packet anymore; mistake #1. I believe it was a 6 oz packet, and it was in fact lager yeast.
This particular yeast said it should be ferment at 53 - 59 F for optimal results; it's sitting at approx 55 F in primary. From what I could observe, and I haven't taken a SG reading because it's only been 4 days, fermentation has been slow and sluggish. It took roughly 72 hours to notice anything, and that was after I warmed it up some to 60sh and roused the yeast a little after seeing no visible signs of fermentation. After I did that, I did see some bubbling, and felt pressure on the lid of the bucket. I placed it back in it's spot where it sits around 53 - 55 F. Hindsight, my concerns are: (1) perhaps I should have pitched two packets of yeast, especially since it seemed like I used a lot of extract (2 qts LME, DME). The kits only came with one yeast packet. Also didn't mention anything about using a starter - it actually said to pitch dry. I rehydrated and pitched.
(2) Looking ahead, what if I do not get down to my FG? (OG = 1.068). Is it ok to repitch 2-3 weeks after brewing if needed? I bought some yeast activator but did not use it after realizing this brew should not need it - there should be plenty of food for the yeasties. I am kind of worried I may not have enough cells.
Perhaps I am worrying too much. Any input would be appreciated. Ultimately, I guess I won't know anything until I take a SG reading.
