Beer Forum

I am thinking about doing some Brett experiments. I want to split 5 gallon batches and Brett half of each. So do you try and spilt a smack pack in 2 and if so what is the best way for that? Or do you just buy a whole smack pack for each 2 1/2 gallon batch? If they were both ready at the same time it would be easier, but they will be probably 2-3 weeks apart before being ready for their shot of Brett. Any thoughts?

Thanks

It depends on a few factors. Are you fermenting with a primary saccharomyces yeast first and then innoculating with brett for a secondary condition or are you using brett as a primary fermenter. If you are using brett as a secondary yeast then I recommend pitching 1 packet of brett each into your split batches. Be prepared to wait around 4 months for some good results. I would also recommend (from experience) to add the brett to a secondary after primary fermentation just starts to slow. That way when racking into a carboy there will still be some outgassing to prevent oxidation while the brett takes over. Plus it will give the brett a head start on some of the remaining sugars.

If you are planning on using brett as a primary fermenter, then use 1 package with a quart starter for each split batch. Prepare to give the starter about 7-10 days to start working well. Plan on the beer being in primary for about 3-4 wks as brett is a very slow fermenter. I recently made an 100% brett Claussenni beer with a quart starter. The beer was a 1046 gravity and it didn't even show signs of active fermentation for 2 days after pitching with 60 sec. oxygen. That was 3 weeks ago and the beer still has a nice krausen on it and is actively bubbling 15-20 times per min. Go figure!!