Identifying the taste of yeast: benevolent or malicious?
When you serve a glass of homemade beer, do you suddenly feel that the drink resembles a slice of bread? That note to yeast can be your worst enemy or a reminder that beer is still in its growth stage. These flavors, which are described as ‘green’, are more common in young beers or in those that have not yet had time to mature.
Understanding the phenomenon of fermentation
The yeast plays a crucial role in beer production, but it can also be responsible for undesirable flavors. These bread, mass or even a vegemite sandwich notes are often the product of a normal fermentation process that sometimes translates into little desirable beers. Experienced brewers have tried those flavors in the youth of their beers, which, although normal, can be frustrating.
The magical art of flocculation: an essential process
The flocculation is the process by which the yeast, after fulfilling its mission of fermenting, is agglutinated and deposited at the bottom of the tank. This phenomenon may vary according to the strain of yeast used; Some are faster and more efficient than others. If you observe that your beer is still cloudy, it could be that yeast has not yet reached that point of ‘rest’.
How to control flocculation?
For those avid brewers, checking the data sheets of yeast strains can be very revealing. For example, if you use a strain known for its slow flocculation process, you may have to be patient while waiting for beer to clarify. Sometimes, time is the best friend of a brewer.
Patience: The best ally of the brewer
The most direct solution for yeast flavors is undoubtedly the simple patience. Some beers, especially lagers, require a longer rest time for yeast to settle. Faced with the doubt, try your beer periodically; The yeast flavor will decrease over time, allowing you to enjoy a more pleasant beer experience.
Avoid sediment in the glass
The sediment, that annoying part that accumulates in the background of carafons and barrels, can also contribute to the flavor of yeast in your drink. By serving a bottle, make sure not to shake the sediment. In the case of barrels, you may need to rule out a couple of pints before reaching cleaner beer.
The next time you delight in a beer at home, remember that small settings can make large differences. Health and enjoy the art of homemade beer, without unwanted flavors!
