KingBob wrote:I cooled some of my beer down last weekend and found it’s got a mean chill haze, what would cause this and how can I avoid this next time? It is nice and clear looking ‘till it cools down.
If it's clear when warm and hazy when cold then it's Chill Haze, caused by proteins in the beer. You want to use Isinglass or Whirlfloc tablets next time. I prefer the tablets as they are simple to use, 1 per 5 gallons 15min before the end of the boil. You have to rehydrate Isinglass which is a real PITA.
This will help, but may not entirely eliminate the haze. You can also cold-condition the beer which will help precipitate the particles. Just ask Justin. He lagered my Wit Beer to crystal clarity! Put them in the fridge and after a few weeks they should clear.
Word on the street is that Chill Haze is cosmetic and does not effect the flavor, so if you want to drink it instead of waiting for it to condition then don't worry about it. If it tastes good, drink it. If you want to enter some in a competition or impress friends, throw a 12 pack in the fridge and leave it for a month.
Rob
