Dr. Laura Burns from Omega Yeast discusses attenuation with Cade, covering topics like measuring attenuation, apparent versus real attenuation, yeast genetics, optimizing fermentation, yeast adaptation, and genetic changes. The conversation emphasizes the crucial link between genetic modifications in yeast and the optimal production of alcohol and CO2 in brewing, as well as the importance of consistency and control in attenuation for brewing practices.
Optimizing fermentation by understanding the nuances of attenuation, including maltotriose fermentation and yeast genetics.
Influencing attenuation potential through adjusting wort profiles, enzymatic activity, and yeast strains for desired outcomes.
Managing attenuation on the cold side by ensuring proper yeast health, oxygenation levels, and pitch rates for consistent fermentation.
Deep dives
Imperial Yeast's New Hybrid Strain: I10-Mango-Steene
Imperial yeast introduces the unique proprietary strain, I10-Mango-Steene, boasting excellent attenuation, notes of ripe tropical fruit, strawberry, and lice that complement modern hops. This Kivike hybrid can ferment between 78 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit without issues, offering brewers a versatile option. The strain's characteristics enhance fruity IPAs and highlight the innovative advancements in brewing yeast.
Mastering Fermentation: Attenuation Insights
Attenuation, the process of reducing wort sugars to alcohol and CO2, plays a crucial role in brewing, with yeast's ability to ferment sugars under specific conditions being paramount. The distinction between apparent and real attenuation measurements unveils the complexities of monitoring yeast performance. Understanding attenuation nuances like maltotriose fermentation and yeast genetics aids in optimizing fermentation outcomes.
Influencing Attenuation: Factors and Strategies
Various factors, such as malt composition and yeast genetics, influence the attenuation potential in brewing. Brewers can adjust wort profiles, enzymatic activity, and yeast strains to alter attenuation levels according to desired outcomes. By evolving yeast strains to ferment specific sugars like maltotriose and employing adaptive lab evolution techniques, brewers can enhance fermentation efficiency and achieve desired attenuation ranges.
Controlling Attenuation Through Hot Side Factors
Monitoring fermentation and controlling attenuation can be influenced by factors like mash rest temperature and pH. Adjusting the mash temperature to around 148 degrees Fahrenheit encourages the breakdown of sugar to maltose, favoring efficient sugar profile breakdown. Factors like enzyme ranges, pH levels, and water-to-grist ratios play crucial roles in enzyme activity and ultimately affect the fermentability of the wort.
Influencing Attenuation Through Cold Side Practices
Managing attenuation on the cold side involves ensuring proper yeast health, oxygenation levels, and pitch rates. Oxygenation is vital for promoting cell growth and biomass production, while using fresh yeast enhances fermentation success. Understanding yeast genetics and knowing the impact of factors like oxygenation, nutrient supply, and pitch rates contribute to achieving desired attenuation rates and consistent fermentation outcomes.
This week, Dr. Laura Burns from Omega Yeast returns to the lab to chat with Cade about all things attenuation.
The Brü Lab is brought to you by Imperial Yeast who provide brewers with the most viable and fresh yeast on the market. Learn more about what Imperial Yeast has to offer at ImperialYeast.com today.