Expert: Dave Nyce - 11/29/2006

Question
Someone who knows that I brew gave me a bag of oak chips from a beer supply store.  How do I use them?  In the mash, boil, or aging?  Thanks!

Answer
I use oak chips when I make wine, but have not used them in making beer.  If you use them in making beer, do not put them in during brewing.  Wait at least until the wort cools before introducing the oak chips.  For less oak flavor, add the oak chips about 3 days before bottling (that would probably be better for your first try).

But decide first if you want your beer to have an oak flavor!

Hope this helps.

Dave