I brewed a Dunkel back in Oct for the holidays using S-189 and was very impressed with the way the yeast accentuated the malts. I went a little heavy on the roasted (BlackPrinz) but otherwise it was a big hit with the family. I just brewed it again with less BlackPrinz and to make sure the festive holiday season was not unduly affecting my perception. Well I just took my first taste 48 hrs into forced carbing and wow, hit this one on the head! Malt out the wazoo and the roast is not perceptible but the color is a nice dark brown. As it lagers it can only get better. S-189 is gonna be my go to lager yeast. It was no fluke! 2.5 gallon batch BIAB 1.056 OG 1.012 FG 5.75% ABV 5lb Munich Dark 92% 5oz Aromatic 5.7% 2oz BlackPrinz 2.3% Mashed at 149F 32 IBU Hallertau @60
I use S189 quite a bit and am a big fan! However for malt forward lagers I prefer the 34/70. I do split batches with these yeasts all the time. Glad you are having good experiences with this yeast! Take care!
I just used S189 for a Vienna Lager, as my LBHS was out of 34/70 (!). Fermented at 56 and it was done in 4.5 days hitting my expected FG. Kegged today (day 8) after a quick D-rest and so far, so good. Definitely impressed thus far!
