Post date: Jan 31, 2009 8:12:01 PM
Currently performing a test of 3 different 2L pop bottle brews.
#1 is Rum with 1118 yeast: Completed in 8 days, cleared for 7 days, ran it though 3 coffee filters, taste was very good. Nice on the rocks. Next time I'll try a white oak stick or oak chips to add flavor, then on to the spiced rum.
#2 is Sugar Wash with 1118 yeast: Completed in 12 days, Cleared well in 7, ran though coffee filter. Making this into Amaretto. Taste test gives it a thumbs up, very close to the real thing.
#3 is Sugar Wash using Bakers yeast: Completed in 16 days, cleared some in 7 days, ran though coffee filter, not as clear as 1118. Making this into Kahlua. Taste test gives it a not to bad, I don't think it is as strong as the 1118 (so it's sweeter as well).
Conclusions: Lalvin EC-1118 yeast wins over the bakers for fermenting time, taste, strength and clarifying ability.