Found a kit from last summer...is it still good?

[kahall1]

I was cleaning out my beer fridge in the garage and found a Hefe kit that I had bought last year and never got around to making. It is an American Hefe mini mash kit that has been in the fridge since it got to my house in August (I think). The yeast vial has been in the fridge too, but I thought I would see what happens with a starter and worse case scenario I have to order new. Would this kit be worth making or is it past its prime and end up tasting like it was forgotten in a fridge for six months? Thanks!

[PFDarkside]

I asked the same question about a year ago and the consesus is ditch it. How much is a kit, $20? Compare that to all the work, setup, sanitizing, waiting, bottling... Is it worth $20 to see if the kit is still good?

I think what it came down to is that you would need fresh hops, fresh grains would be nice, and you might be able to get the yeast going, but you also might need to get a new batch.

[gone_fishing]

I just made a kit 2 weeks ago that I got for Christmas 2004. I proofed the yeast because it was past the expiration date. All is well, but the FG isn't going to be as low as it should. I'd say use the kit but spend a buck on another packet of yeast, or buy some liquid. The yeast would be the only thing I'd worry about.

[Tyree]

I would throw it out. I used a kit I had for a year ,and it didnt taste very good .It was supposed to be an american lite , but it turnd out to be a very bitter red. Maybe you should make it and tell us how it turns out . Double dog dare!!

[SoxyinMO]

I'll side with the try it group. Of course I DO have someone here who is willing to drink anything we make.

I triple dog dare you. :eek:

[gone_fishing]

There's always SOMEONE who will drink it!

[choreboy]

I bought a kit on ebay a month ago and when I received it the only date I could find was 1994. The yeast was definately garbage and the malt smelled like it had been in a smokey basement since the mid to late 90's. I did try to make it- but ended up dumping it in the end.
I say make it- what have you got to lose. If it seems nasty afterward, you can always dump it.
Good luck.

[Trogger]

I left a kit sitting around all summer, this past year. I went to brew it in the fall, and the extract was moldy.
If it looks unspoiled, go for it, but make sure you update us with the results.

[LtDude]

Originally posted by SoxyinMO
I triple dog dare you. :eek:

Well now you HAVE to do it.

[kahall1]

I guess since I have been tripple dog dared, I have no choice in the matter. I am waiting for a new pack of yeast to show up so I can make a starter. Probably looking at next weekend to brew, so I will post an update after that.

[PFDarkside]

Fresh hops man, I'm tellin' ya. I read somewhere on this forum about hops and how long it takes to have the AA's removed, even in vacuum packed bags. And how much does a couple of ounce of hos cost?