Expert: John Snyder - 6/25/2007

Question
Hi John::

First let me thank you for taking the time to answer questions for people... it's VERY appreciated!

I'm brewing my first batch, which is a light ale, from a kit.  I followed all directions VERY closely and everything was going quite well.  After about 18 hours, my air lock started bubbling like crazy, but stopped the very next day.  I let it sit for an extra day, and took a gravity reading.  Starting gravity was 1.043, and the gravity 3 days later was 1.022.  The recipe states final gravity should be 1.007-1.010.  So I put the lid back on and let it sit for two more days.  Checked it again, 1.021.  Has the fermentation stopped prematurely?  How can I get it going again?

Thank you very much for your help!
~ Tom

Answer
There are several things that may have been the cause,based on your statements.

Since the fermentation appears to have started on time,I would pitch new yeast.

Some things to look at:

1---the yeast was improperly prepared.EX:lack of re-hydration,lack of numbers,(no starter to boost cell count),lack of aeration,Yeast needs air to start fermentation

2---too cold temperature,only a 5 degree drop in the room temp,overnight can cause the yeast to stall.Always try to keep the room temp,constant,especially during the first 3 to 4 days.Ale yeast are especially vulnerable,since they are a high fermentation temp,yeast

As your product stands now it looks like you are at about a 2.43 alcohol,by weight,and a heavy body,approx. a 5.8 degree plato.

Any further help needed ,will be glad to assist

                John