Saflager S-23 Lager Yeast
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Saflager S-23 is a robust bottom-fermenting lager yeast strain originally isolated from the VLB (Versuchs- und Lehranstalt für Brauerei) in Berlin. It is known for producing fruitier and more estery lager profiles than traditional German strains, making it ideal for a wide range of lager styles with a touch of complexity.
This yeast is favored by brewers looking to achieve lagers with a subtle ester lift and a slightly fuller mouthfeel, while still maintaining clean lager characteristics.
S-23 performs well at a range of temperatures and tends to leave a crisp yet rounded finish. It’s also known for its excellent storage qualities and reliability across diverse fermentation conditions.
Technical Details:
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Flocculation: Medium to High, allowing for good sedimentation and clarity post-fermentation.
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Attenuation: Medium, typically in the range of 80–82%, contributing to a balanced residual sweetness.
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Alcohol Tolerance: Up to 9% ABV when properly pitched and fermented.
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Fermentation Temperature: Recommended range is 12–15°C (53–59°F), but it can be used at higher temps (up to 20°C / 68°F) for more ester development.
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Usage: Can be pitched dry into wort or rehydrated for enhanced performance and cell viability.
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Ideal Beer Styles: Great for Dortmund-style lagers, American lagers, Munich Helles, Vienna lagers, and other styles where a touch of ester fruitiness is desirable.
Saflager S-23 Lager Yeast FAQ
What kind of lagers is Saflager S-23 best for?
Saflager S-23 is a bottom-fermenting lager yeast that produces clean, mildly estery lagers with excellent drinkability. It’s well suited for European-style lagers, including Helles, Dortmunders, Munich-style lagers and any lager where you desire a slightly fruitier, more rounded lager profile.
What is the ideal fermentation temperature for S-23?
S-23 performs best between 48–59°F (9–15°C). It tends to produce more esters at the higher end of that range, making it a great choice for brewers looking to brew lagers with a little more personality. For a cleaner finish, keep it on the cooler side of the spectrum.
Can I use S-23 without refrigeration?
While ideal lager fermentation happens at colder temperatures, S-23 can still be used in warmer conditions, especially with temperature control methods like swamp coolers or fermentation chambers. If you’re fermenting in the low 60s°F (16–18°C), expect a fruitier, more ale-like profile.
Is Saflager S-23 good for pressure fermentation?
Yes, Saflager S-23 works well under pressure fermentation. Use a pressure-capable fermenter and set your spunding valve to 10–15 PSI. This technique suppresses esters and allows for warmer fermentation temperatures while still achieving a clean, balanced lager profile.
What’s a good alternative to S-23?
If you’re looking for a lager yeast with a cleaner, more neutral profile and better performance at slightly warmer temps, try Saflager W-34/70 Lager Yeast. It’s one of the most versatile and widely used lager strains in the world.
