Old WLP033 Klassic

Ingredients
1

So I pre-ordered this yeast from the White Labs vault a couple years ago, then I got a vial this summer when they pushed everything into production.  Problem is that I have  been on a lager kick, and now have a vial of Klassic in the fridge that was best by August 5.  I’m now trying to decide if I throw together a bitter recipe and make a big starter to use this yeast, or just call it a loss and toss the vial in the trash.  Anyone ever used a 3 month past dated White labs vial?

2

I still call that fresh. Make a starter and use it. It would have to be way past that for me to consider tossing it.

3

It should be fine, I’ve revived a 2 year+ old vial of saké #9 yeast before. If you are really worried just use an intermediate step.

4

+1.  A few years ago I was shopping at NB, and they were giving away a bunch of expired smack packs.  I kept them in the fridge for a while and used them when they were about a year past date.  I had to step them up through a few starters, but they were just fine.

5

Thanks all!  Sounds like a British Ale is in my future.  In 20 years of home brewing, I have only brewed two British-style ales.  Any recipe suggestions?  I have 8 oz of Styrian Goldings in the freezer.  Some EKG also.  I’d prefer to make use or one or both of those hops for this beer.  Thanks in advance!

6

Here’s my go-to page when I’m thinking about trying a new recipe for a British style:

I’ve still got two tubes of the Klassic ale, as I took a hiatus from brewing most of the year. I’m planning on a batch of the “Lees Best Mild” recipe found on that list.

7

Same here. I recently purchased his “Let’s Brew” book, which is essentially a print copy of many of these recipes from his blog. I realize that the blog is free, but I’ve brewed so many of Ron’s recipes, that I felt the need to buy the book to support all the research that he has shared so freely.

Here’s the link to his book:

8

Wow, that page is a great resource.  Thanks guys!

9

I’ve got a couple of his books on my wish list for Christmas. I totally agree with buying his books to support his research, I just typically use his website as I’m not tied to a print.