Using smaller-than standard carboy for kits

mrkeeg · #1 (**permalink**) 03-16-2005, 07:57 PM

I have a spare 19L carboy, and most kits are 23L.

Any prolems with just making the kitup to 19L instead, for a slightly stronger, tastier beer?

Thanks,
Keegan

wild · #2 (**permalink**) 03-17-2005, 02:32 AM

You can use less water but if you're doing a full boil, your hop utilization will be less. My suggestions are:

If it is a full boil, boil an extra hour to lose the 4L or adjust your hops.
If it's a partial boil, start with the usual and top off to 19L.

Good luck.

Wild

jason · #3 (**permalink**) 03-17-2005, 11:59 AM

Wild is correct. I've brewed some BarelyWine that used a smaller carboy then I would normally use. It came out just fine, but the beer will be stronger.