Just took another small taste test of a clone of Stone’s Sublimely Self Righteous and though it’s not 100% carbed, it’s close. However, it’s got a strong alcohol taste. It was supposed to come out at about 9% which I would understand would have some of that but mine, unless I measured one of both readings incorrectly, came out at just under 6.5%. (I had too much water and didn’t have time to boil it all off so I was off a good bit from expected OG)
It did hit 72-73 for a short while after I pitched US-04 and it started fermenting but I got it down to 66 in just a few hours. I’m thinking fusel alcohol though I pitched the correct amount of yeast. It’s not bad but the alcohol is covering up the flavor. It’s within the range listed on the package but I’m not sure how long it stayed at 72-73 but no more than a few hours.
Is it likely that time will help with this taste dissipate?
It is possible that the alcohol will mellow with age. It often does… but not always. Even at 6.5%, it is not uncommon to be able to taste some alcohol. And if that’s all you’re at, I’d say that the alcohol will likely improve with a little age. Maybe give it 4 to 6 months and see how it is then.
Yup, fusel alcohol is a pretty good guess and it will probably mellow out if its not that bad but it will take a little time to condition out. Leave it alone for a few weeks and give another a try then.
I appreciate the suggestions. I guess my main concern is how I got the fusel alcohol. Obviously the temps went higher than my gauge indicated???
Never had this happen to me in all my years of brewing even when I know things got too hot. Guess I’m still batting a great average and will just sit and wait and taste every few weeks to see how it comes out. Got a few bottled but I doubt that will improve.