Satchel Kits’ One Week Rice Lager
Knowing a little about the techniques and yeast necessary to make a lager, this kit drew me in. It is advertised as a one-week rice lager, which is right up my alley. An easy, simple lager is what I wanted, and to be honest, I think I found it.
Now, to be clear, this would technically be labeled a pseudo-lager because it doesn’t adhere to lagering techniques like fermenting at a cool temperature over a long period of time, often months. The yeast is likely one of the awesome Kveik strains that produces a clean, crisp beer at high temperature very quickly. But what is most important to many of us is that it makes alcohol that tastes good.
We started with 2 lbs. of malted barley and rice, and about 0.15 oz. of Tettnanger hops. The process and the temperatures were typical and straightforward when compared to brewing an ale. This made it easy and fun to make, which is typically what we’re looking for when seeking a kit.
So, let’s get down to the final product
First Impressions:
On the Eyes - Clear, straw color and very little head formation, but bubbly and light like a lager.
On the Nose - Evident malty sweetness that makes the mouth water. Very bright and refreshing aroma.
On the Palate - Sweet and malt-driven, but not overly sweet and nicely balanced with the Tettnanger hops. Great flavor that is crisp, refreshing and sessionable. Everything a lager should be.
Verdict:
But, would I make it again?
The quick answer is YES! This one was so easy to make, and the one week fermentation time made for a quick turn around. Plus, the fermentation was able to take place up to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, which made the temperature control manageable, even here in Texas. One concern I had was that the beer, once conditioned, would potentially develop an off flavor the longer it sat. One of the reasons this beer has a one week fermentation time is so it does not develop any off, sulfury flavors. I let a couple of the bottles sit around for about six weeks and they tasted as good as when I cracked the first ones. So my concerns were put aside.
All in all, this one was fun, and it made a great beer we were happy to have on hand for the month of October as we explored the world of lagers.
Keep Brewing!
Mr. Brew