Did I make a boo-boo?

[GunNut76]

Is there such a thing as over pitching yeast? I added 5 gallons worth of yeast to a 2.5 gallon batch of Honey Ale that I brewed on 11/25. I rehydrated 1/2 pack of Nottingham on brew day and added the rest of the rehydrated pack tonight while pulling a sample. The OG was 1.061 and I am sitting at around 1.016...1.5 days later! On the plus side the sample tasted wonderfull, a little yeasty and sweet , but still good. I'm almost at my target FG of 1.012 too, but I think it might just go lower.

[wortchillergoal]

Yes you can over pitch. It sounds like you don't have any problem with this batch other than it mike take a little longer fro the yeast to settle out.

[brewmonkey]

Over pitching yeast can be a problem and lead to autolysis and some off flavors from it. If you have reached your desired gravity go ahead and rack to your secondary and allow it to drop and if you still have a decent amount of sediment rack again before packaging.

[yonkersbrewer]

I always brew at a 2.5 gallon size, it fits my needs and kitchen best. I don't bother to halve the yeast and I have never had a problem. "Worse" yet I will sometimes brew on the yeast cake of the prior brew using what has to be a mega-starter fit for a barrel sized batch rather than my little bucket. Again I have never had a problem and have a great start to my fermentations. I would not worry if I were you.

[GunNut76]

Thanks guys! I was worried there for a bit...now all I have to do is get rid of these freaking ants!!!:mad:

[brewmonkey]

Overpitching is something which should be avoided. While someone may say they are having good results with it, it can and will lead to problems with the beer.

When you overpitch the yeast will not have a complete growth cycle leading to fewer new "daughter" cells and low viability. Overpitching will also lead to lack of desired or expected fermentation characteristics of the yeast and as autolysis occurs it can leave a sharp/astringent note.