From basic ale strains to complex blends of wild yeast and souring bacteria, selecting the right fermentation tool is one of the most important aspects of recipe development. But deciding a more basic issue—liquid or dry—is easier for some styles than others. Following are some considerations for your next batch of homebrew.
Liquid Yeast
When it comes to variety, liquid yeast can’t be beat. Commonly available in vials and pouches, liquid yeast offers homebrewers many of the same strains available to professionals. Here are some reasons to choose liquid yeast:
- Unmatched selection of strains
- Many seasonal strains available throughout the year
- Some beer styles can’t be brewed without it
Liquid yeast products do, however, have some drawbacks:
- Liquid yeast is usually more expensive than dry yeast.
- Improper handling can dramatically reduce viability.
- Low cell count often necessitates using multiple packages or a starter.
- Wort aeration or oxygenation is essential for yeast growth.