Reducing the amount of water

[NoviceBrew]

Hi folks, I'm making a Coopers Stout which says make up to the full 23L but I seem to remember the last stout I made said to use a few litres less, so I've only made it up to 20L. I've browsed a couple of topics but can't find anything to say if there's any benefit to this.

So I suppose my question is - should I just top up the water to 23L as instructed or will using less water result in a darker / creamier stout? ...also will any of this affect the brewing process?

Thanks!

P.s. I've used spray malt extract.

 

[Baldbrewer]

Using less water will result in a slightly stronger ABV and a more fullsome brew.
My one and only kit before I turned to the darkside was an "enhanced" St Peters Ruby red ale.
I reduced it to 37 pints and dry hopped.
Enjoy, but you might have to wait a little longer for it to be at it's best due to increased abv. :thumb:

As always it's up to you : :

 

[LeedsBrewer]

I've heard that the Coopers Stout is great. I've not done it myself but i know that several on here have brewed it to around 20L and been happy with it. It's probably how I would do it.

 

[kentmark]

Takes a little longer to ferment, but IMO gives a brew that has a slightly higher ABV and a better flavour, more depth. I kit brew, I always brew slightly short now as I personally prefer the end result.

 

[NoviceBrew]

Thanks for the advice guys, it seems to be brewing very nicely and consistently - reached the FV lid last night and has receded slightly today, 4 days in.

Enjoy, but you might have to wait a little longer for it to be at it's best due to increased abv.

How long would you recommend I leave it? I normally leave for 7/8 days if it's a full 23L.

Another quick question - I really want to brew this in the pressure barrel and leave till Christmas so is there anything I should to do account for there only being 20L? I'm thinking the extra air in the top might affect pressure or carbonation...?

I've got a co2 injector with some bulbs....