First brew issue. Lid on boil part time

Discussion in 'Homebrewing' started by Jrhuebner, Sep 20, 2016.

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  1. Jrhuebner

    Jrhuebner Initiate (0) Sep 19, 2016

    hey guys new to the home brewing and made my first batch of smashing pumpkin ale yesterday. Had to do it on an electric stove but I did just order a propane burner for next go around. To get to a good boil I had to cover part of the time but it definitely didn't stay on the whole time. I've heard it can ruin the beer? Any chance I'm alright? Thanks!!
     
    #1 Jrhuebner, Sep 20, 2016
  2. dmtaylor

    dmtaylor Savant (1,149) Dec 30, 2003 Wisconsin

    It will turn out fine.
     
    #2 dmtaylor, Sep 20, 2016
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  3. CarolusP

    CarolusP Zealot (590) Oct 22, 2015 Minnesota

    I can't imagine why that would ruin a beer. The only reason I don't like covering my pot during a boil is that you'll never see a boil-over coming until it's too late.
     
    #3 CarolusP, Sep 20, 2016
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  4. GetMeAnIPA

    GetMeAnIPA Pooh-Bah (2,559) Mar 28, 2009 California
    Pooh-Bah

    DMS is burned off during the boil. If the lid is on the DMS

    Part of the process of boiling is to remove dimethyl sulfide (DMS), DMS is formed by heating the wort. If you leave the lid on the kettle DMS won't evaporate with the steam and you'll have more of the flavor in your beer.
     
    #4 GetMeAnIPA, Sep 20, 2016
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  5. minderbender

    minderbender Initiate (0) Jan 18, 2009 New York

    Just going to weigh in to say that @GetMeAnIPA is right, but DMS isn't always a concern. It is especially a concern when brewing all-grain with pilsner malt. It is much less of a concern with an extract batch or when using more highly kilned malts. So in other words, while I suppose DMS is always a risk, it is completely reasonable to use a lid in the manner that you describe. You should just be aware that for some beers - e.g. all-grain batches using lots of pilsner malt - the risk is higher for DMS off-flavors.
     
    #5 minderbender, Sep 22, 2016
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