Discovering Chronical as a beer teacher
Last week I chatted about the fabulous world of Chronical Brewmaster of SS Brewtech, and this time it is time to get down to work. So grab your jug because I’m about to ferment some beers to see if the title of ‘Fermenter star’ really takes!
Variants and sizes for each brewer
Let’s talk a little about the characteristics of this beloved fermenter. The Chronical has two versions: the standard version and the ‘Brewmaster’ line that comes to demonstrate who sends in fermentation. In addition, you can choose between four sizes, from 7 to an impressive complete barrel. I got with the 14 gallons, ideal for my 10 gallons of beer at Blichmann Breweasy. With accessories such as a stainless steel cooling coil and butterfly valves, my beers have a new ally!
Preparation Day: The brewer ritual
To get the most out of the Chronical, there are a couple of accessories that you need to have in your brewer kit. Ready for action? I started the elaboration day filling the fermenter with Starsan, while taking care that the valves and components were impeccably sanitized. At the end of the day, I poured the must directly from my pot after passing through the Therminator heat exchanger, a trick that every brewer should know.
FTSS temperature control: the ideal partner
If you want total control over your beer, the FTSS system is an accessory that you will not want to pass. With a simple heater and a little ice in an ice items, you can keep your ferments at the perfect temperature. But is there a trick? You need to be prepared to load ice often! I used an old shoulder that I had for the elaboration, and what a small adventure was.
Style fermentation ‘zero stress’
Once underway, the Chronical became my best friend: it almost does not require maintenance. Every three days the accumulated sediment was broken through the lower valve, carefully observing my ‘visualization window’. Everything seemed to go without problems; I even gave myself the luxury of collecting yeast for future elaborations. Who says you can’t be an smart brewer?
Pressurized transfer: the most efficient path
When it was time to transfer beer to barrels, I opted for a pressurized transfer system using CO2. With patience and the properly adjusted regulator, I could fill two barrels in less than 15 minutes, almost without sediment. Goodbye fermenter dramas!
Cleaning: A Children’s Game
After each brewery session, the cleaning was a sigh. Thanks to its design, the fermenter is easily disarmed, and a rapid rinse with the hose eliminated most of the waste. Just a few more minutes with PBW and was ready for the next beer adventure.
Accessories: The cherry of beer cake
To bring my experience with the Chronical to the next level, I incorporated some additional accessories. From a temperature control system to leg extensions, each element made the elaboration even more friendly. The details matter and each piece counted.
Final Reflections: The great brewer companion
The Chronical of 14 gallons, although it represents a significant investment (more than $ 775!), Offers features that adapt it to serious brewers needs. What really emphasizes is that, unlike other fermenters, it has a robust construction in stainless steel that promises durability for years. While the temperature convection system has its limitations, it is worth considering the alternatives. In short, the Chronical has earned his place as the ideal partner in my beer adventure, and is a very strong candidate for the best friend of the brewer. Health for new fermentations!
