Expert: Spencer W Thomas - 12/7/2008

Question
I added 1 pound of sugar to a beer kit extract and did everything else according to standard procedure. After adding the liquid yeast (WLP 001 Ale)I noticed it did not begin the fermentation process as it usually does. I waited about 12 hours and when there was absolutley no sign of activity I added a powered yeast to kick it in gear. And by morning it was very active.
Do you think there may be too much yeast?
How can I tell if everthing elese is OK?
Should I check its SG durring the process?
I feel like I screwed up and I might need an expert
to pull this one off!
Thanks for your help.

Answer
No, there's not too much yeast.  I have heard from others of problems with the WL yeasts recently.  You did the right thing, and I expect your beer will turn out fine.

The easiest way to tell if everything is ok is to taste.  Of course, you have to have a basis for comparison -- if you've never tasted actively fermenting beer, it will taste "off" compared to finished beer.  If you normally take SG readings, then take SG readings.  If you don't usually, then I wouldn't bother.

The main risk here is that some other organism got a head start during the time before you pitched the dry yeast.  The only real way to detect that is in the taste of the finished beer.  

So, relax, and let it finish.  I think you'll be fine.