My first Lager

[Ian...]

Hi folks
Just started my first lager, a Coopers Pilsner. I see from all the info here that lager is brewed at lower temps but Coopers instructions say start fermentation at around 21c. Many of the lager posts say 10 - 16c. So do I follow Coopers instructions or not? Also, does a lager take longer to start fermenting than an ale?
Cheers

 

[joe1002]

I would imagine you lager kit is supplied with ale yeast so 18-22c will be fine.

Real lager yeast does have to be fermented at a much lower temperature. 12c rings a bell for some reason but might be wrong.

 

[Pawlo7671]

I would imagine you lager kit is supplied with ale yeast so 18-22c will be fine.

Real lager yeast does have to be fermented at a much lower temperature. 12c rings a bell for some reason but might be wrong.

Nope, coopers European lager and pills is supplied with a true lager yeast, I fermented mine at 14c and It was fine.
TBH lagers, if done right, take ages and I think there's good enough alternatives that use ale yeast and take much less time, better brew Czech pills to name one.

 

[pittsy]

If you do have/get a lager yeast then around 9 to 12c is ideal but 2 packets of yeast is required really otherwise you will have a slow start and you also risk straining the yeast that may make off flavours although unlikely . If brewed with a low temp lager yeast then brewing at 21c would be risky , however if instructions say 21c then i would ferment at 21c and make sure you leave it well alone for 10 to 14 days before testing with hydrometer :thumb: