Beer Forum

After two years off, I started brewing again but not before I added a HERMS upgrade. The problem came on my second brew session when my efficiency went way beyond previous levels. I ended up with a OG of 1071 for a German Wheat (pitched with #3068).

So, if this attenuates to around 1014-1016 I'm going to end up with a 7%+ wheat beer. Too light for Weizenbock in color and hops. Should I dilute it at kegging? Steep some chocolate malt and boil some hops for 30+ minutes before packaging?

If you have 50+ IBU, I would let it be and drink it. Might be interesting. I have had a number of interesting results of unexpectedly high OG's that tasted really good. Not what I was going for but good.

Wayne
Bugeater Brewing Company

Yes, the HERMS does wonders for the efficiency doesn't it?

I do an occasional High Grav Hefe, 1.065 or so. It makes a nice beer. It might take a little longer to age though.

Don't worry about "Fixing" it, just watch your friends get hammered on a nice, light wheat beer.

Ask Olin and Chris about that.

I know, I know, I'm such a newbee What is HERMS?

Cheers,
Brewbear

Brewbear wrote:I know, I know, I'm such a newbee What is HERMS?

Cheers,
Brewbear

Heat Exchange Recirulating Mash System

The mash liquid is pumped (circulated ) through a heat exchanger (usually a copper coil in the hot liquor tank) to pick up heat and raise the mash temp. Makes for a good conversion and a clear run off. Makes step mashing a breeze! RIMS is similar, but runs the liquid over an electric coil to add heat to the mash.

Doc I finally realized what your avatar reminds me of.. picture Christopher Walken on SNL in the skit. Yes, its Colonel Angus! Your avatar is Col. Angus lol

It's settled, I'm leavin' it!

My last "Hefe" turned out a bit too high too. The OG was 1.060. I just let it go and it was a damn fine beer! Maybe a little too dark (too much vienna/munich) but it was clean crisp and tasty!