Cash wrote:I have been using the smack packs for the last few batches, and doing so without making a starter. I keep hear'n ya'll say "starter, make a starter, reduces the lag time". So my question is, "so what?"(said the simpleton). What is it about the reduced lag time that makes my beer better?
Actually, not much, unless you have VERY long lag time! I think lag time is somehting that people place WAY too much emphasis on. If you do a decent job of sanitation, you won't taste any difference between a 2 hour lag and a 36 hour lag. To me, the main purpose of making a starter is that more yeast cells translate to a better quality fermentation and a better tasting beer.