Weizenbock Banana Ester

[syoung34]

Just brewed the Phat Fired Weizenbock from Papazian's "Complete Joy of Homebrewing", using the Wyeast 3068 (Weihenstephan Weizen). Bottled a week ago and opened the first bottle tonight. Great color and good carbonation for only a week. However, the banana tones were very strong.

Will this mellow over the next few weeks???

[HogieWan]

Originally posted by syoung34
Will this mellow over the next few weeks???

Yes - RDWAHAHB

Any flavor/aroma that seems strong when young will still be prevalent, but will back off.

What were your fermenting temps.

[syoung34]

Both primary and secondary were 8 days each around the low to mid 60's. Moved the bottles upstairs were it is slightly warmer.

[HogieWan]

just because the room is mid to low 60s doesn't mean the beer is. When those yeast start working, they give off heat, so the beer could end up considerably warmer

[syoung34]

Yes, I understand that. I guess your telling me I should take regular temp. readings of my fermenting beer?

Since I have no means of further cooling, other than my basement, I never saw the need.

[Mill Rat]

Originally posted by syoung34
Yes, I understand that. I guess your telling me I should take regular temp. readings of my fermenting beer?
No, I would not recommend opening your fermenters any more often than necessary, and I don't consider knowing that temperature to be necessary. I think Hogie was just mentioning that since many are not aware of that, and a vigorously fermenting yeast (as the weizen yeasts tend to be) will increase that temperature rise over ambient.

[dparsons]

I have aquarium-type thermometers on the outside of my fermentors. I get a closer reading to the internal temperature and don't have to open the fermentor.

[Mad Scientist]

Originally posted by dparsons
I have aquarium-type thermometers on the outside of my fermentors. I get a closer reading to the internal temperature and don't have to open the fermentor.

You can find them made for beer (with lager and ale temps) at you LHBS or on fleabay for a couple of $$

[syoung34]

Thanks everyone. They have them at my LHBS for a buck.