Hi all - I'm looking for an Orval clone, or something close, that folks like. I've done some searching here and elsewhere but haven't found much - there is a recipe from CandiSugar (http://www.candisyrup.com/uploads/6/0/3/5/6035776/orval_clone_-_040.pdf), some debate on this board (https://www.beeradvocate.com/community/threads/orval-clone-help-yeast-questions.42092/), the BLAM recipe, and discussion of a recipe from mashweasel (with links to a page on the Northern Brewer forums that's not up anymore). Figured it can't hurt to start a new thread, see if anyone has anything new to offer. Also, any thoughts on pitching WY3789 vs a Belgian yeast for primary, and then Brett (maybe Orval dregs) in secondary? Many thanks!
Man, I would never hope to clone Orval -- cheers to you for trying. The many ways in which it mutates and evolves over time is intimidating. Based on what the Wyeast website says for 3789, I would think this better suited for the secondary/bottling steps as Florenville is the region that Orval is from. The suggestion of 3522 from Milk the Funk seems like it would be a great candidate for the primary yeast.
Fair enough - and perhaps clone is not right, but rather "inspired by" or "similar" or "half-assed futile attempt" or something along those lines . . .
Hahahah, right on. Should be a fun experiment! This thread does make me want to go out and buy some Orval though, as I haven't had any in a couple years I think...
I haven't looked at the MTF recipe yet, but I suspect you're in good hands. Inspired by Orval sounds like something I'd like to drink. As for yeast choice, I never used the Bastogne yeast, which is a Saccharomyces strain derived from Orval, allegedly, but I have raised Orval bottle dregs and pitched into the secondary fermenter of a Belgian pale ale fermented with the Ardennes strain, and I felt pretty proud of myself. It wasn't Orval, but it was sufficiently reminiscent of it. I think if you have done your research and have the basics of sanitation and fermentation down, and you have a recipe from the MTF guys, and you have done the research you have done, you'll make something decent.
