How come the kits never hit the quoted FG?

[inthedark]

Hi all

I'm now about to keg kit number 4, but one thing is bothering me still about the FG of each of the kits. All of them quote a target FG lower than I've been able to achieve (and often a higher SG than I get too).

I'm following the instructions very closely, and I know that it shouldn't matter so long as it tastes OK, but to me it's a gap that needs explanation.

So - why don't they ever ferment down to the quoted FG? Is there anything I can do about it?

cheers

[inthedark]

Thanks, DaaB. I've aerated using a muck mixer in a drill, and rehydrated as you suggest. I've got fermenting temperature pretty stable at 20deg now.

I've been using Safale 04, bought from H&G with long use by dates (same for the kits), although I did try Gervin for my Great Eastern which also stuck at about 1012.

I haven't been terribly systematic about this, I've tried four different kits and not repeated anything yet, so maybe I need to repeat one and only change one variable at a time - Once the Nelson's Revenge is in the keg, I've got a Fixby Gold - if it's as good as you say, then maybe I'll order another one and see how the change of yeast affects it.

I'll take your advice on OG too -thanks.

[inthedark]

Out of interest, what FG are you expecting, from memory most Woodfords kits are predicted to ferment down to the 1014 mark

That would explain things! Where did I read 1008 - 1010 then? I've binned the instruction leaflet, so I'll have to take your word for it.

The GE went to 1012 with the Gervin, so that fits in with it being more attenuative. The Nelson's Revenge (with Safale 04) is at 1015 ish so I'm leaving it a few more days to make certain.

You should enjoy Fixby Gold, especialy if you allow it to mature for an extra couple of weeks. I found it reached it's best at around week 5-6

5-6 weeks I'll have to be tied down I think...

[inthedark]

I'd rack it to the barrel once it has been in the fermenter for 10 days

That'll be tomorrow's job then. Thanks.

[chopperswookie]

I've aerated using a muck mixer in a drill, and rehydrated as you suggest.

hope it was sterilised!!!