Saflager S-23 Lager Yeast

Saflager S-23 is a robust bottom-fermenting lager yeast strain originally isolated from the VLB (Versuchs- und Lehranstalt für Brauerei) in Berlin. It is known for producing fruitier and more estery lager profiles than traditional German strains, making it ideal for a wide range of lager styles with a touch of complexity.

This yeast is favored by brewers looking to achieve lagers with a subtle ester lift and a slightly fuller mouthfeel, while still maintaining clean lager characteristics.

S-23 performs well at a range of temperatures and tends to leave a crisp yet rounded finish. It’s also known for its excellent storage qualities and reliability across diverse fermentation conditions.

Technical Details:

• Flocculation: Medium to High, allowing for good sedimentation and clarity post-fermentation.

• Attenuation: Medium, typically in the range of 80–82%, contributing to a balanced residual sweetness.

• Alcohol Tolerance: Up to 9% ABV when properly pitched and fermented.

• Fermentation Temperature: Recommended range is 12–15°C (53–59°F), but it can be used at higher temps (up to 20°C / 68°F) for more ester development.

• Usage: Can be pitched dry into wort or rehydrated for enhanced performance and cell viability.

• Ideal Beer Styles: Great for Dortmund-style lagers, American lagers, Munich Helles, Vienna lagers, and other styles where a touch of ester fruitiness is desirable.