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General Discussions => Brewing Communities => Rebel Brewers => Topic started by: mr hoppy on November 20, 2014, 10:44:38 PM

Title: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: mr hoppy on November 20, 2014, 10:44:38 PM
This is the recipe I was thinking of

http://old.brewersassociation.org/pages/business-tools/publications/the-new-brewer/online-extras/show?title=style-spotlight-bohemian-dunkel

Single infusion at 67 should be fine.

Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: mr hoppy on November 20, 2014, 10:46:37 PM
Was kind of thinking a barrel aged festbier (IPA if you are an incurable hophead) might be a good way of using some of that recently acquired melanin, carapils, and carahell?
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: mr hoppy on November 20, 2014, 11:25:57 PM
BTW if you are looking at the U Fleku recipe DO NOT  use floor malted bohemian pilsener malt unless you are decoction mashing. It's probably the only pale barley base malt that actually needs a decoction mash. Any other pilsener malt, or even MCI lager malt would sub.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: LordEoin on November 21, 2014, 03:44:08 AM
i thought we'd already decided on a recipe?
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: johnrm on November 21, 2014, 08:23:36 AM
There is some tasty malt floating about, so we could use it.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: LordEoin on November 21, 2014, 03:36:05 PM
There's always malt around. if we keep changing the recipe we'll never get to brewing anything at all.
lets just set a date and a recipe, like we nearly had done 2 months ago when this thread started
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Garry on November 21, 2014, 05:07:13 PM
Here's my take on the recipe. How's it look?

Czech Dark Lager
Schwarzbier (Black Beer)

Recipe Specs
----------------
Batch Size (L):           23.0
Original Gravity (OG):    1.049
Final Gravity (FG):       1.012
Alcohol by Volume (ABV):  4.81 %
Colour (SRM):             38.6   (EBC): 76.0
Bitterness (IBU):         39.7   (Average)
Brewhouse Efficiency (%): 65
Boil Time (Minutes):      90

Grain Bill
----------------
4.000 kg Pilsner (2 Row) Ger (70.8%)
0.750 kg Munich Malt (13.27%)
0.700 kg Caramunich Malt (12.39%)
0.200 kg Carafa III (3.54%)

Hop Bill
----------------
33.3 g Saaz Leaf (4% Alpha) @ 90 Minutes (Boil) (1.4 g/L)
33.3 g Saaz Leaf (4% Alpha) @ 60 Minutes (Boil) (1.4 g/L)
33.3 g Saaz Leaf (4% Alpha) @ 30 Minutes (Boil) (1.4 g/L)
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: mr hoppy on November 21, 2014, 11:08:37 PM
Looks good!

Maybe drop the IBUs down to 30? which is more in line with the U Fleku and Kout na Sumave recipes.

Also maybe a smidgen of Melanoidin malt given that we're not decocting and since there's a bit of it knocking around.

I'd also be inclined to push the ABV up a bit (5.5 - 6%) if it's going in the barrel?

The other thing is are we just lagering at ambient temperatures? Probably need to be putting this down pretty soon if we want the ambient temps to be cold enough.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: johnrm on November 22, 2014, 12:07:09 AM
What melanoidin? The stuff going damp in the boot of my car?
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Dr Horrible on November 22, 2014, 12:12:13 AM
Here's my interpretation of the receipe, very similar to Garry's but a higher OG.
4.95kg Pilsner(77%)
0.65kg Munich (10%)
065 kg CaraMunich(10%)
0.19 Carafa III (3%)
0.05kg Melanoidin
28g Saaz at 90minspo
28g Saaz at 60mins
28g Saaz at 30 mins
OG 1.060
32.5 IBU
Just getting the hang of Beersmith, so hopefully all  makes sense. 
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: mr hoppy on November 22, 2014, 12:39:15 AM
Quote from: johnrm on November 22, 2014, 12:07:09 AM
What melanoidin? The stuff going damp in the boot of my car?

aw jayz john gimme a break. i'll give you a shout tomorrow.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Garry on November 22, 2014, 12:48:25 AM
I'm happy with that Dr.h.

Mr. H, it will be lagering at ambient temp.

Will we start a list ?

1. Garry 20L
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: johnrm on November 22, 2014, 09:10:17 AM
1. Garry 20L
2. Johnrm 20l

Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Dr Horrible on November 22, 2014, 09:49:11 AM
1. Garry 20L
2. Johnrm 20l
3. Dr. Horrible 20L
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: mr hoppy on November 22, 2014, 10:44:47 AM
1. Garry 20L
2. Johnrm 20l
3. Dr. Horrible 20L
4. mr hoppy 20l
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: dcalnan on November 22, 2014, 02:58:39 PM
If you're brewing during Christmas for this. I might try and get my all grain set up working, I have the coolbox, just have to get the valve and all the copper.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: LordEoin on November 22, 2014, 07:51:55 PM
1. Garry 20L
2. Johnrm 20l
3. Dr. Horrible 20L
4. mr hoppy 20l
5. LordEoin 20L

When are we filling the barrel?
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Taf on November 22, 2014, 08:07:55 PM
Stick me down for 20 litres as well.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Garry on November 22, 2014, 08:20:10 PM
1. Garry 20L
2. Johnrm 20l
3. Dr. Horrible 20L
4. mr hoppy 20l
5. LordEoin 20L
6. dcalnan 20l
7. Brian 20l
8. Taf 20l

dcal & Brian, I'll stick you down for 20l each. We won't hold you to anything. If you just want to brew 5l that's fine. You'll only get about 4l back though.

We'll aim to fill the barrel around the middle of January.  That will give us all a chance to brew over the holidays.

I have about 200g of saaz to spare if anyone needs hops?
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: raindogxx on November 22, 2014, 11:14:30 PM
You can put me down for 20 liters too.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Garry on November 22, 2014, 11:18:11 PM
1. Garry 20L
2. Johnrm 20l
3. Dr. Horrible 20L
4. mr hoppy 20l
5. LordEoin 20L
6. dcalnan 20l
7. Brian 20l
8. Taf 20l
9. Raindogxx 20l
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Taf on November 27, 2014, 10:42:44 AM
I know that the recipe mentions leaf, but could we go for pellets instead, and get 1 Kg from tube, which should be approx the right amount for the barrel?

Can we also split this topic into a new one, so it's a bit tidier?

http://www.nationalhomebrewclub.com/forum/index.php/topic,8338.0.html
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: johnrm on November 27, 2014, 11:30:50 AM
Pellets should be fine, use 10% less pellets by weight.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: raindogxx on November 27, 2014, 11:59:44 AM
First time doing one of these group brews. Are we using the barrel as a secondary or are we pitching the yeast in the barrel? Seems like the coordination could be a bit tricky to primary in the barrel. If we're doing the primary individually what yeast are we using?

Also how much does the barrel hold? I'm happy to contribute 20L but if somebody else wants in I can cut that down or even hold off until next time. I don't want to cut anybody out who was looking forward to the brew.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Garry on November 27, 2014, 12:14:03 PM
@raindogxx, You will brew at home and do the primary fermentation at home. The beer will secondary or tertiary in the barrel. The barrel is in my garage, so you will need to bring your contribution to my house. We'll sort that out in time.

Quote from: http://old.brewersassociation.org/pages/business-tools/publications/the-new-brewer/online-extras/show?title=style-spotlight-bohemian-dunkel
Yeast
American brewers have a wide range of Czech yeast choices for this brew. Suitable strains include Wyeast 2000 Budvar™; 2001 Urquell™; 2007 Pilsen™; 2124 Bohemian™; and 2278 Czech Pils™; as well as White Labs WLP800 Pilsner; and WLP802 Czech Budejovice.

I've got a pack of Wyeast Pilsner Urquell 2001 so that's the yeast I'll use. Johnrm has a hape of mauribrew lager yeast if you need some.

The barrel holds approx 200l. We need 1 more contributer? Anyone interested?

Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: johnrm on November 27, 2014, 01:51:25 PM
Are we happy to use Lager malt in place of Pilsner?
I have Carafa, not sure if its Carafa III
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: raindogxx on November 27, 2014, 02:05:26 PM
What color are we aiming for? I'm getting 41.7 EBC using Dr. H's recipe.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Garry on November 27, 2014, 02:20:17 PM
The style guidelines for Schwarzbier say 33.5 to 59.1 EBC so there's plenty of tolerance there!

Use the recipe as a guideline. One batch brewed with Carafa instead of Carafa III isn't going to make much difference.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: raindogxx on November 27, 2014, 02:34:56 PM
Sounds good. Here's my BeerSmith recipe. I'm happy to tweak it if anybody has suggestions.

Jon

http://beersmithrecipes.com/viewrecipe/622614?&doid=54773644e5baa
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: johnrm on November 27, 2014, 03:04:02 PM
14 gal Boil down to 10 gal?
Have you leaks in your system?
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: raindogxx on November 27, 2014, 04:57:07 PM
Quote from: johnrm on November 27, 2014, 03:04:02 PM
14 gal Boil down to 10 gal?
Have you leaks in your system?

No, it's this damn boil kettle. Evaporation rate is terrible:

(http://i.imgur.com/Gui06tw.jpg)
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: johnrm on November 28, 2014, 12:43:04 PM
I have a vial of WLP838 - Southern German Lager Yeast.
http://www.whitelabs.com/yeast/wlp838-southern-german-lager-yeast
I could make up a big starter of this and split it.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: mr hoppy on December 17, 2014, 11:45:03 PM
Is this on?
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: johnrm on December 18, 2014, 08:59:03 PM
Was that tumbleweed?

We're short 1 batch, I could do 2 if necessary.
Bearing in mind this is a lager, is everyone happy about temp control for primary?
STC controlled Brew belt in a shed?
I've not lagered before so what profile?
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: mr hoppy on December 18, 2014, 09:22:55 PM
You and your fancy flashed STC.

Start at 10 go to 12 once you've got low krausen for 7 - 12 days (when krausen drops) and then drop down a degree a day til you can go no lower (must be lower than 7) and then hold for 6 - 8 weeks.

If you need to do a diacetyl rest go from 12 to 16 just before krausen drops hold for 2 days and the proceed as above.

I've Wyeast 2001 and WLP 800 if people need some.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: derfel on December 18, 2014, 10:53:23 PM
what sort of time frames are we talking so?
I'm new to lager so not sure how long it'll need in primary and so on.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: mr hoppy on December 18, 2014, 10:55:03 PM
7 - 12 days.

I think the idea is to do most of the layering in the barrel at ambient temperatures.

I was hoping Garry would put a coil full of chilled salt water pumped through a cold source but he's not volunteered yet. :)
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: mr hoppy on December 18, 2014, 11:28:56 PM
Sorry, just to be clear the primary fermentation takes 7-12 days and then I'd just leave it in the primary fermenter til it goes in the barrel whenever that happens.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Taf on December 19, 2014, 12:52:22 PM
Bah, secondary for 6 to 8 weeks! I presume that can just be in an unheated garage, as doubt it will get over that temp over the next two months, otherwise I am out, as not going to commit my fermentation fridge for that long.

Are we still definitely sure we don't want to do a black IPA? if we do stick with the black lager, can we up the ABV a bit more?
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: LordEoin on December 19, 2014, 02:49:14 PM
secondary = barrel.
your fridge should only be needed for about 2 weeks while primary is happening. after that it should be plenty cold enough in your garage to sit until barrel filling day.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: mr hoppy on December 19, 2014, 06:08:17 PM
Quote from: LordEoin on December 19, 2014, 02:49:14 PM
secondary = barrel.

secondary = everything after you drop the temp, garage and barrel. :D

Malt arrived today. Big ole bag of Weyermanns Bohemian Pilsener Malt.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: LordEoin on December 23, 2014, 09:35:55 AM
removed post to avoid confusion - mistake in recipe
new file can be found here: http://www.nationalhomebrewclub.com/forum/index.php/topic,8354.msg106855.html#msg106855
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Will_D on December 23, 2014, 10:07:17 AM
I love "off the brewsmith scale recipes"
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: LordEoin on December 23, 2014, 10:33:04 AM
no point in putting anything lighter in the barrel.
At least it's balanced  ;D
Everything seems to be about 10% over the style limits apart from color (it'll be dark as hitler's soul)
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: mr hoppy on December 23, 2014, 10:52:51 PM
Oi, it's not a schwartzbier (or a dunkel either) its a Tmavé Speciální Pivo.

http://www.europeanbeerguide.net/czecintr.htm

Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: LordEoin on December 23, 2014, 11:01:15 PM
Whatever you want to call it, it's super dark and the wort smelled and tasted great.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: mr hoppy on December 23, 2014, 11:09:36 PM
Looking at the recipe, you went fairly heavy on the auld Carafa!
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: dcalnan on December 24, 2014, 01:46:21 AM
You're definitely going to have to rule me out of making a batch,  I don't have a fermentation chamber , a mash tun or any of the grains for it. I need to get these done in the new year, Santa might be good to me and get me a few things
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: LordEoin on December 24, 2014, 11:52:25 AM
Quote from: mr hoppy on December 23, 2014, 11:09:36 PM
Looking at the recipe, you went fairly heavy on the auld Carafa!
well feck me. how did i not notice that? that should be 200g! no wonder it's so dark...
i must have typo'd it when putting garry's recipe into beersmith.
ah well, what's done is done and the wort doesn't taste bad for it. when it's in the barrel it'll be unnoticable.
I updated that beersmith file in case anyone else brews from the recipe.

Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: LordEoin on December 24, 2014, 12:04:52 PM
and for those without beersmith:
(http://i.imgur.com/sbuRa3y.jpg)
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Dr Horrible on January 03, 2015, 09:41:30 PM
Just brewed this yesterday, got 20l at 1.060. Was aiming for 22-23l but forgot to take into account all the volume the leaf hops would soak up (Doh!). Wort tasted good, looking forward to this batch. Pitched Saflager 34/70, never used this yeast before, been 24hrs and although there's a lot of activity at the bottom and CO2 coming off there's still practically no krausen, looks like a real bottom fermenter.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: johnrm on January 04, 2015, 12:12:55 AM
I had better get cracking...
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Taf on January 06, 2015, 09:14:21 AM
I'd say I'm out for this. Didn't brew over Xmas, and next thing I brew will be something hoppy for fairly immediate consumption.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: johnrm on January 06, 2015, 11:25:06 AM
Lets revise the list.
1. Garry 20L
2. Johnrm 20l
3. Dr. Horrible 20L
4. mr hoppy 20l
5. LordEoin 20L
6. dcalnan 20l
7. Brian 20l
8. Taf 20l
9. Raindogxx 20l
10.

We need 2 more contributors.
Anyone else out?
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Garry on January 06, 2015, 11:49:17 AM
Quote from: dcalnan on December 24, 2014, 01:46:21 AM
You're definitely going to have to rule me out of making a batch......

Dcalnan is out too. We need 3 more contributors please?

1. Garry 20L
2. Johnrm 20L
3. Dr. Horrible 20L
4. mr hoppy 20L
5. LordEoin 20L
6. Brian 20L
7. Raindogxx 20L
8.
9.
10.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: LordEoin on January 06, 2015, 03:52:07 PM
i don't think i'll be able to do a second one. I have this in one fridge and a pilsner in the second fridge.
I might be able to just do it with a brewbelt in the brewdungeon.
I'll check if i have any lager/pilsner malt left when i get home and see from there.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: johnrm on January 06, 2015, 04:26:48 PM
I will do a second batch.
I have a STC controlled larder fridge that can take 2 fermenters.

1. Garry 20L
2. Johnrm 20L 1/2
3. Johnrm 20L 2/2
4. Dr. Horrible 20L
5. mr hoppy 20L
6. LordEoin 20L 1/2
7. LordEoin 20L 2/2 possibly
8. Brian 20L
9. Raindogxx 20L
10.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: dcalnan on January 06, 2015, 08:35:57 PM
I ordered the parts for my mash tun so I won't have any excuse next time around. Well I don't have a temp controlled fermenter...yet.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Garry on January 06, 2015, 10:32:59 PM
I'm just off the phone to Mr RM. He was inquiring about the barrel's condition. It looks like the barrel is after contracting "hairy hands syndrome". Internally it looks ok but I can't see around corners. What ye think? Is it worth risking?

(click the image for higher resolution)

(http://i.imgur.com/VqH6e0F.jpg) (http://imgur.com/jWvL4sn)
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: mr hoppy on January 06, 2015, 10:37:43 PM
Hmm... that's a bit worrying.

Is there any reason why this comes up on the right of my screen when I click through on the barrel image?

Quote
This husky appeared while I was pooping in a public restroom. It stared at me for a few seconds and then ran away.

(http://i.imgur.com/XFCSRUT.jpg)
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: mr hoppy on January 06, 2015, 10:41:31 PM
This article seems to suggest 2/3 filling dodgy barrels with sodium per carbonate (W5 oxy):

https://byo.com/stories/item/948-keeping-it-clean
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: johnrm on January 06, 2015, 10:56:22 PM
Our cocktail should have sorted bugs internally. (But what do I know)
That said, the barrel is offering very little these days.
Is it worth burning a sulfur candle in the barrel?
Are these available?
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: mr hoppy on January 06, 2015, 10:59:02 PM
As I understand it sulfur candles do the same thing as campden tablets, they're just more dangerous!

http://www.cider.org.uk/campden.html
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Taf on January 06, 2015, 11:44:14 PM
Quote from: mr hoppy on January 06, 2015, 10:37:43 PM
Hmm... that's a bit worrying.

Is there any reason why this comes up on the right of my screen when I click through on the barrel image?

Quote
This husky appeared while I was pooping in a public restroom. It stared at me for a few seconds and then ran away.

(http://i.imgur.com/XFCSRUT.jpg)
Ha ha, wtf, very strange! Works fine for me.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: LordEoin on January 17, 2015, 10:57:38 AM
I'm about to put on the second batch now.
I suppose I should just leave out the carafaIII to make up for having too much in the first one, yeah?
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Garry on January 17, 2015, 11:08:38 AM
It probably won't make a huge difference when it's all blended? Leave it out to fúck  :P
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: LordEoin on January 17, 2015, 11:15:59 AM
exactly my thinking. when it's all lumped together it'll balance out :)
How's that barell looking>
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Garry on January 17, 2015, 11:48:07 AM
The barrel could do with a scrub! Might get to it some night this week. It's brass monkeys in the evenings so it's hard to motivate myself to go outside. Great weather for lagering though  :)
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: LordEoin on January 17, 2015, 12:19:35 PM
Yeah, it's tough get the push to go out alright.

This should be the barrel's logo:
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: mr hoppy on January 17, 2015, 01:04:36 PM
I'm brewing today.

TBH I think LE's on to something there. For those who are reluctant to do a lager, or an all grain there's nothing to stop you subbing in a neutral ale yeast or DME/LME for the pilsner malt. Or both if necessary.

As long as most of the brews are done with lager yeast it'll be grand (if the barrel's ok!)

And I'd say it's definitely a good base beer for a bit of Black IPA hopping as well.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: LordEoin on January 17, 2015, 01:33:48 PM
I was thinking the same. there's a good amount of bitter and flavor hop additions so once it's out o the barrel a dryhop should make it fantastic :)
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: johnrm on January 18, 2015, 10:12:06 PM
First batch chilling.
Second Batch is going to be later in the week.
The second will be my 5th Black beer on the trot.
I think I'll do a Cascadian IPA to get away from all this darkness.  O0
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: raindogxx on January 19, 2015, 08:44:59 AM
I'm brewing Tuesday or Wednesday depending on when I can get my new chiller sorted. Are we happy with the barrel?
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Garry on January 19, 2015, 09:01:21 AM
The barrel is good  :)

What kind of chiller did you get raindogxx?
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: raindogxx on January 19, 2015, 09:29:03 AM
It's one of these guys:

(http://www.mybeerandwine.ie/207-thickbox_default/stainless-convoluted-counter-flow-wort-chiller.jpg)

I have it mostly together but the damn Hozelock knock-offs I bought for the water supply line are leaking. It makes me ill to spend 8 euro on the brand name connectors but it might be the way to go.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Garry on January 19, 2015, 09:36:47 AM
Nice  8)

My hose connectors drip too. At least it's only the cooling water that will be leaking and not the wort.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: LordEoin on January 20, 2015, 12:39:12 AM
That is a sweet looking chiller. I have to look into building a new one soon as mine sprung a leak :(

When are we thinking to fill that barrel so?

Lets do a roll call on what's fermenting/fermented :
Lord Eoin - 40L
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: johnrm on January 20, 2015, 05:17:38 AM
You could use rad-weld...

Lord Eoin - 40L
Johnrm - 20L (20L to do)
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Garry on January 20, 2015, 09:34:32 AM
I transferred mine to secondary last night because it was sitting on the yeast for 3 weeks.

Lord Eoin - 40L
Johnrm - 20L (20L to do)
Garry 20L
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: raindogxx on January 20, 2015, 09:49:41 AM
Lord Eoin - 40L
Johnrm - 20L (20L to do)
Garry 20L
raindogxx - 20L to do

My chiller is sorted. The name brand fitting did the job. Just picking up some fuel today and I'll be ready for brewing tomorrow.


Jon
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Dr Horrible on January 20, 2015, 03:44:38 PM
Lord Eoin - 40L
Johnrm - 20L (20L to do)
Garry 20L
raindogxx - 20L to do
Dr Horrible - 18L (sorry!)

I took my batch off the yeast at the weekend as well because I was thinking of trying to get another batch in but
I've moved out to a shed to brew and had a problem with my new 12V temp control system so can't commit to
doing another one just now, maybe if the parts I've ordered work I might be ok.
Took a sample when I transferred it and it's gorgeous, I don't normally like roasty flavours but this was lovely.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Garry on January 21, 2015, 09:09:25 AM
How does Friday 6th Feb suit everyone for the filling ceremony?

@Dr Horrible, what parts are you short? I might have something in stock!
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: LordEoin on January 21, 2015, 10:05:28 AM
Fridays aren't good for me, but I'll see what I can do.
I suppose I could take a half day and be up for about 4ish
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Garry on January 21, 2015, 10:47:07 AM
I was thinking Friday evening/night time. How does Saturday (7th) afternoon suit everyone?
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: johnrm on January 21, 2015, 10:53:28 AM
(http://www.animateit.net/data/media/august2009/th_tumbleweed.gif)
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: johnrm on January 21, 2015, 10:55:55 AM
118l so far.
I will get another 20 on (I'll be murdered, but...)

We're still shy (Barrel volume - 138L) so 62l odd .
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: LordEoin on January 21, 2015, 11:39:53 AM
Friday evening should be fine. I'll just take a half day :)

I don't think I'd be able to put on another one,  I now have a pilsner brewing in one fridge, barrel lager2 brewing in the second and barrel lager1 out in secondary. I'm pretty much out of room and all out of suitable hops and lager/pilsner malt.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: raindogxx on January 21, 2015, 03:27:21 PM
I thought I replied but I don't see it. Ops. I'm out of town until Wednesday, February 11th. If you want to go ahead without me no worries but if you want to add all of it at once It'll have to be anytime from Wednesday on. Sorry about that.

Jon
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Dr Horrible on January 21, 2015, 04:51:43 PM
Pretty much any Friday evening or Saturday afternoon suits me fine, although it would probably be bad form to do something on Valentines day - double the loss in brownie points.
Garry, I'm doing some oddball stuff with my temp control system so not sure if you'd have any spares I'd need- I've moved my kit out to a shed where my only power supply is a 12V battery and I'm trying to get the temp control up and running.  I've wired up a 12V STC-1000 ok, and am reasonably ok on the cooling side of things, but I'm struggling on the heating side.  I had intended to use a standard 220V brewbelt with a DC-AC converter inline, but although this works fine when supplied directly from the 12V power source, the STC doesn't like it at all.  Thought it was pulling too high a current, so used a lower power converter but still the same, so I need a 12V heat source.  Been looking on Ebay for something that might suit and have just received a 3-D ceramic printer cable which should theoretically do the job if I can figure out how to wire it up - if not I'll have to get a heating mat or something like that.  Bit stuck for time during the week so if I can get it working on Saturday I might try to sneak in a brew on Sunday, but can't really guarantee anything.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: johnrm on January 21, 2015, 07:54:09 PM
The AC/DC but should not matter. Did you test continuity through the relay?
How is the STC acting up?

Those solar pumps are 12v. Maybe consider a geothermal solution...
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: mr hoppy on January 21, 2015, 09:10:07 PM
Lord Eoin - 40L
Johnrm - 20L (20L to do)
Garry 20L
raindogxx - 20L to do
Dr Horrible - 18L (sorry!)
mr hoppy - 18l I think
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: johnrm on January 21, 2015, 09:12:50 PM
Can we stir up any more interest?
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: mr hoppy on January 21, 2015, 09:19:10 PM
How far short are we?
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Garry on January 21, 2015, 10:02:01 PM
Quote from: mr hoppy on January 21, 2015, 09:19:10 PM
How far short are we?

Anyone know an accountant?  :P

@raindog, it doesn't matter if you can't make it on the day. You just have to have the beer at my place before the day. That should be manageable?

@dr h, I'm just out of 12v heaters!
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Dr Horrible on January 21, 2015, 10:28:42 PM
Quote from: johnrm on January 21, 2015, 07:54:09 PM
The AC/DC but should not matter. Did you test continuity through the relay?
How is the STC acting up?

Those solar pumps are 12v. Maybe consider a geothermal solution...
I've checked out the STC - I've got 12V female cigarette lighter type sockets on the heating and cooling output and depending on the temp setpoint I can get a power supply to the socket I want.  However, when I plug in the DC-AC converter the STC starts periodically switching on and off
I reckon we're two batches away from a full barrel, and johnrm is down for an extra so we need one more on top of that.  Hopefully someone else will volunteer or else we're  relying on my electrical abilities  - not a good place to be!
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: mr hoppy on January 21, 2015, 10:46:19 PM
If it's one batch short it's not really going to matter if the last one is done with a neutral ale yeast/extract/no temp control.

Any volunteers?
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: derfel on January 21, 2015, 11:09:41 PM
I have an 18l batch fermenting away. At least I hope its fermenting, its not what I would call enthusiastic :)
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: mr hoppy on January 21, 2015, 11:22:13 PM
Fair play! Lagers tend not to be enthusiastic. If you've got a head of yeast in 48 hours you're probably doing fine.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: johnrm on January 22, 2015, 12:42:05 AM
I have a modicum of enthusiasm at 13C. I was away for 2 days, so not sure when the party started.
Has that new kit worked out for you so Brian?
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: derfel on January 22, 2015, 07:47:23 AM
The kit was fine. The boiler was perfect, BIAB worked ok bar hitting 18l instead of 20, the gravity reading was spot on though.
Using the hand mill for 5kg was tedious to put it mildly, I was wishing I'd spent more on one of the roller ones :)
Wiring up the brew belt and STC was very straight forward.

The heavy duty server power cords are the business.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: johnrm on January 22, 2015, 07:57:14 AM
Congrats on the maiden voyage
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: LordEoin on January 22, 2015, 10:00:16 AM
Just remove the bolt that holds on your mill handle and replace it with a normal bolt, then you can simply hook a drill up to it a socket. I'll take a picture of mine later on if I remember.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: mr hoppy on January 22, 2015, 10:01:25 AM
Beat me to it. Google instructibles corona mill for a how to.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: raindogxx on January 22, 2015, 10:12:21 AM
Just pitched my batch last night. It's bubbling slowly this morning. The latest I can drop off my share is next Wednesday (flight is Thursday morning). Not sure if 7 days is sufficient, the fermentation profile I planned to follow recommends 14 days in primary prior to a 3 day diacetyl rest. What do you think?
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Garry on January 22, 2015, 10:15:56 AM
Great stuff raindog. Just drop it up to me next week sometime and I'll babysit it. My fermentation fridge is free!

PM me for directions.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: johnrm on January 22, 2015, 10:25:19 AM
Now to buy a socket set.
Homebrewing, the fun never stops!
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: derfel on January 22, 2015, 12:53:32 PM
I'll have a look at converting the mill.

I have a socket set if you want to borrow it johnrm.

Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: LordEoin on January 22, 2015, 02:54:34 PM
The casting on the Corona style mills can be a bit rough.
If you want to bring the mill to Garry's I'll bring the dremel and we can convert it and tidy it up a bit to make it run smoother.
I should have a suitable bolt in the shed too, I'll check it out.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: johnrm on January 22, 2015, 03:05:04 PM
Quote from: Brian on January 22, 2015, 12:53:32 PM
I'll have a look at converting the mill.

I have a socket set if you want to borrow it johnrm.
No, I meant you. You obviously have one, so now just make sure you have a half decent drill.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: LordEoin on January 22, 2015, 03:44:47 PM
You should probably upgrade your shed wiring too while you're at it
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: derfel on January 22, 2015, 04:33:35 PM
Quote from: johnrm on January 22, 2015, 03:05:04 PM

No, I meant you. You obviously have one, so now just make sure you have a half decent drill.

oh, oops. I'll have a think about it, there's no rush, I won't be doing a 20l batch again any time soon.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: johnrm on January 24, 2015, 01:59:41 PM
2nd batch mashing.

Lord Eoin - 40L
Johnrm - 40L
Garry 20L
raindogxx - 20L to do
Dr Horrible - 18L (sorry!)
mr hoppy - 18l I think
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Garry on January 27, 2015, 03:49:05 PM
Just to confirm, I'm going to go with Friday 6th Feb for filling. Call in around 19:00ish onwards.

If you can't make it that night let me know and we'll get your beer on site before then.

Raindog just dropped off his batch, cheers  :)
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: LordEoin on January 27, 2015, 04:30:13 PM
will there be pavlova?
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Garry on January 27, 2015, 05:03:55 PM
Hmm! My Aunt makes a mean pavlova, I'll ask her.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: johnrm on January 27, 2015, 05:18:22 PM
What are ambient temps in Waterfall these days? I only yeasted batch no.2 last night. I would like to give my yeasty friend some privacy as least in the early stages.

What's with the Pavlova?
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: LordEoin on January 27, 2015, 05:38:15 PM
Gary promised us all Pavlova and coffee!
See you at 7ish on the 6th.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Garry on January 27, 2015, 05:58:58 PM
Ambient temperature this week iiiiiiiiis..................7°C  :( Any other year it would be much colder but it will have to do. Maybe raindogxx cold bring some snow back from the states?

If you don't like pavlova bring your own sweet. I'm not Mr Kipling  :P
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: johnrm on January 27, 2015, 07:09:34 PM
Take it I'll be there, any change I'll let you know.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Dr Horrible on January 27, 2015, 09:24:47 PM
Quote from: Garry on January 27, 2015, 03:49:05 PM
Just to confirm, I'm going to go with Friday 6th March for filling. Call in around 19:00ish onwards.

If you can't make it that night let me know and we'll get your beer on site before then.

Raindog just dropped off his batch, cheers  :)
Friday 6th Feb even?  My second batch has finally started to show signs of life so should hopefully have two batches to bring with me, which by my sums should bring us up to the volume we need- I think you said about 196L  last time Garry.  See you then.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Garry on January 27, 2015, 09:36:49 PM
Yes, February. Corrected now  :-[

Good man Doc H.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: raindogxx on January 28, 2015, 05:39:30 PM
Bah! I hate snow!

Good catching up with you yesterday. BTW, there was about 18L and 16L in the cornies after pitching. I seem to loose 1L per fermenter during transfer but that's after cold crashing and when transferring with CO2 through the diptubes (I cut them short a couple three centimeters). Hopefully you'll get 30-32L out of them.

Thanks for that sample, warmed me right up!
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: mr hoppy on January 30, 2015, 09:15:07 AM
Should be able to make it up on the night.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: mcgrath on February 05, 2015, 11:53:52 AM
Hi, just looking at the recipe you guys used. Was wondering why you dropped the munich from 30% suggested in the link on first post to aprox. 15% in your recipes?
Cheers..
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: LordEoin on February 05, 2015, 02:14:28 PM
'Cos we're not slaves to The Man
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: mcgrath on February 05, 2015, 03:39:54 PM
Quote from: LordEoin on February 05, 2015, 02:14:28 PM
'Cos we're not slaves to The Man

Cool! :)
Is there any other reason? Doing up a recipe myself and wondering if I've missed something..?
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: LordEoin on February 05, 2015, 03:41:09 PM
Don't think so. Just the way the cards fell.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: mr hoppy on February 05, 2015, 06:55:57 PM
Quote from: mcgrath on February 05, 2015, 11:53:52 AM
Hi, just looking at the recipe you guys used. Was wondering why you dropped the munich from 30% suggested in the link on first post to aprox. 15% in your recipes?
Cheers..

We did?
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Dr Horrible on February 05, 2015, 10:10:04 PM
The receipe in the first post isn't the one we used, the thread got split from the one about the last barrel (October Ale) and we'd already decided on a receipe from Mr Hoppy for Kout na Sumave14o Tmave Lezak Specialni (had to copy and paste that) which had the lower amount of Munich.  Can only judge from samples I've taken of it but personally I think this will be a lovely beer,  looking forward to getting it into, then out of the barrel!
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: johnrm on February 05, 2015, 10:47:17 PM
Its being barrelled tomorrow!
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: mr hoppy on February 05, 2015, 10:51:29 PM
Oops, I went with the U Fleku recipe. Can't imagine it'll make much difference. Should balance Eoin 5kg of carafa a little any way :-)

Am drinking a 80% munich 17% pale and 3% carafa III all Saaz lager fermented with Wyeast Pilsener Urquell yeast at the moment and it tastes pretty good too!

Liked this though!

http://www.amazon.com/Brewery-Bohemian-Forest-Evan-Rail-ebook/dp/B00KRPY4GE/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Dr Horrible on February 06, 2015, 11:00:33 AM
Sure it'll be grand when it's blended!
I like the look of that receipe, getting very fond of Carafa III, intend to use it a lot more from now on.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: mr hoppy on February 07, 2015, 12:38:49 AM
Detailed long term weather forecast for Cork

http://www.yr.no/place/Ireland/Munster/Cork/long.html
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: johnrm on February 07, 2015, 12:56:28 AM
Fun evening as always. Here's proof of the filling...
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/06/79615a56cafd70e5029f4085cacea844.jpg)
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Dr Horrible on February 07, 2015, 01:05:30 PM
Cold and frosty this morning- woohoo!  Here's to another six weeks  of winter!
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Garry on February 07, 2015, 03:15:09 PM
It all worked out very smoothly  :)

Here's the view from my perch.

Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: LordEoin on February 07, 2015, 03:34:58 PM
well, look at that handsome fellow  :-*
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Garry on February 07, 2015, 03:50:31 PM
If the temperature stays like this we're laughing.

Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: johnrm on February 07, 2015, 04:07:00 PM
Roll on April 1st (or 2nd)
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Garry on February 19, 2015, 08:51:14 PM
This thing is alive  ???

The water in the air lock was a little darker a few days ago but nothing serious. I couldn't see any activity.

(http://imgur.com/nSdECFk.jpg)

I went out to the garage tonight to get a screwdriver and the air lock was overflowing.

(http://imgur.com/TJPYkv7.jpg)

I've changed the air lock for a blow off tube. It smells fine but is definitely active. The temperature is around 5 to 6'C.

(http://imgur.com/olJ2lou.jpg)

Have we created a monster?
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: LordEoin on February 19, 2015, 09:01:21 PM
Told you so!  ;D
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: mr hoppy on February 19, 2015, 11:30:27 PM
If I recall correctly some of that beer wasn't fully fermented it out - so hopefully we've basically krausened it, which is supposed to be a great way of cleaning up the brew in secondary!
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Garry on March 26, 2015, 07:25:19 PM
Just to keep this thread up to date, we are planning to empty the barrel on Good Friday (April 3rd) starting around 7:00PM.

If you can't make it on the night, make sure you drop a corny or FV to me so we can fill it for you.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: derfel on March 26, 2015, 09:45:01 PM
I can't make it - I'll see if Johnrm can bring a bucket for me.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: Garry on March 26, 2015, 11:23:08 PM
No bother Brian.
Title: Re: Rebel Barrel 2015; Czech Dark Lager
Post by: johnrm on March 27, 2015, 12:03:59 AM
I'm brewing Saturday - pop over.