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I have used yeast as old as 13 months. I allow the yeast to swell completely before using it. This can take as long as 7 days. If enough viable yeast exists in the package, it will swell completely. I can't really say how long the swelling will take. I have seen 9 month old yeast swell in 3 hours an...

Use Wyeast 2112 which is a lager yeast which ferments clean even at ale temps. I have also had good results with 2124 at ale temps.

thanks
john

They will mature faster when stored warmer but go over the hill faster when kept warm. They will age slower at cooler temps but be good longer when stored cool.

thanks
john

Give it a couple of weeks to dry out, burn a sulfur stick in it and then bung it up. Wrap it with plastic (around the sides) to keep it from drying out. Smell for sulfur once a month. If you fill it with a sanitizing solution and store it that way, you will lose whatever flavors are left in it. This...

I don't think it will have any effect either way.
john

Very interesting.....!!!
john

Awesome! Glad to hear you like it!

john

Yes, they are made from a blend of real American bourbon barrels. You can see the charring on the sides of the chunks

john

I would cut the simcoe back to 1/2 oz. I would also cut back the amarillo to 1/2 oz or you may not be able to pick up the orange and lemon. Just a suggestion.

thanks
john

If you are only steeping 1/2 lb grain, only steep it in 1/2 gallon water or you risk extracting tannins leading to an astringent beer. Once you have steeped the grain in the 1/2 gal water, you can add more water prior to adding the malt extract. Otherwise looks like a sound recipe to me!

john

It will work if you can find one that operates in the right temperature range. Most are either too hot or too cold.
You may be better off using a space heater with a thermostat.

That would certainly add color and concord flavor. I have no idea how much would be required.
You could also use wine coloring. One small vial should be enough. Again, it is difficult to say how much is needed because I don't know how light it is and how dark you want it to be.

No problem, any time!

Throw one pack into each batch. It will add a little alcohol but won't effect the flavor.

john

If you are making wine from kits, we like to use this: http://www.thegrape.net/browse.cfm/the-s-s-mix-stir/4,12765.html For fresh grape juice or wine made from grapes or fresh fruit it is not necessary because the wine is rarely ever bottled until it is 3-12 months old which allows the gas to escape...