Q2 Spring Release
In celebration of Wyeast Laboratories’ 39th anniversary, we chose to showcase two yeast strains that came to the Wyeast Culture Collection in our earlier days. These strains also give homebrewers distinct style options to experiment with during the spring months—from American Light Lagers to Witbier and Belgian specialty styles—with reliable, proven, and easy-to-manage characteristics.
2nd Quarter: April—June 2025
Species: Saccharomyces pastorianus
Profile: A complex and aromatic strain that can be used for a variety of lager beers. This strain is an excellent choice for Pre-Prohibition Lagers, formerly known as Classic American Pilsners.
History: A Wyeast pioneer, this strain was submitted to Wyeast to isolate and maintain in 1987 for a historic Montana brewpub, and was contributed to the Wyeast Culture Collections in 1988.
Featured Recipe: Gordon Strong’s Pre-Prohibition Lager
Recommended Pitch Rate for 5 Gallons:
2 Activators™ for ≤ 1.048-1.065 SG
3 Activators™ for 1.065-1.074 SG
3-4+ Activators™ for 1.074-1.105 SG
Species: Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Profile: Isolated from a small Belgian brewery, this strain produces beers with moderate esters and minimal phenolics. Apple, bubblegum and plum-like aromas blend nicely with malt and hops. This strain will finish dry with a hint of tartness.
History: This strain was isolated in 1994 and became a part of the Wyeast Culture Collections the following year.
Featured Recipe: Wyeast Lab Belgian Wheat Beer
Recommended Pitch Rate for 5 Gallons:
1 Activator™ for ≤ 1.048-1.056 SG
1-2 Activators™ for 1.056-1.065 SG
2+ Activators™ for 1.074-1.105 SG
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