Wyeast Laboratories develops commemorative yeast strains #CBCPreview

To celebrate the 2015 Craft Brewers Conference’s visit to Portland, the City of Roses, Wyeast Laboratories will release three commemorative yeast strains, each perfectly embodying the legendary mountain it is named after. Wyeast Laboratories was founded in Oregon in 1986 with the goal of providing a then-fledgling craft brewing industry with the ultimate in pure liquid yeast cultures. Wyeast Laboratories’ extensive variety of yeast strains allowed the brewing industry the opportunity to create the endless styles of beer that consumers around the world enjoy today. Wyeast Laboratories was named after the region’s “Wyeast” Mountain, which was the name given to Mount Hood by the native people.

“The Craft Brewers Conference is the must-attend event for the entire brewing industry, and this year it is being held in Wyeast’s very own backyard,” noted Wyeast Laboratories Founder and President Jeannette Kreft-Logsdon. “Wyeast has had the honor and the privilege to get to work with many of these trailblazing breweries since we first began serving the brewing industry in 1986. As a sponsor of the 2015 Craft Brewers Conference, Wyeast continues to support the growth and education of our amazing clientele and the sector as a whole.”

According to the Wyeast legend, two brothers, Wyeast and Klickitat, were locked in battle for the affections of the beautiful maiden Loo-wit. The battle became so fierce that the Great Spirit intervened and turned Loo-wit into Mount St. Helens, and the fighting brothers Klickitat and Wyeast into Mount Adams and Mount Hood. Now Wyeast Laboratories honors its Oregon roots and its role in the continuing legend of craft beer with a commemorative trifecta of exclusive yeast strains:

Mount Hood Ale (Wyeast): The Pacific Northwest is known for its IPAs and Red Ales, and this Pacific Northwest ale yeast is ideal for both of these beer styles (among many others). In legend, the brother Wyeast was a singer and this strain’s strong attenuation, good flocculation, and clean profile will let your hops and malt sing with delight. Alcohol tolerance: 10%; ABV; Flocculation: High; Attenuation: 72-79%; Temperature Range: 62-72°F (17-22°C)

Mount Adams Blend (Klickitat): Klickitat, the totem-maker, was a skilled craftsman, able to create objects of beauty from natural materials – just like brewmasters do with malt, hops and yeast. This custom blend of farmhouse strains and Brettanomyces is great for Saisons and American-style Sour & Wild ales. Alcohol Tolerance: 12% ABV; Flocculation: low; Attenuation: 80-90%; Temperature Range: 65-80°F (18-27°C)

Mount St. Helens Lager (Loo-wit): After being turned into a mountain, the beautiful Loo-wit wrapped herself in snow—reminiscent of beer foam. Like the undecided maiden, this lager strain is very clean, very dry, and plays well with hops; her beauty is equally at home in a classic Pilsner or an IPL. Alcohol Tolerance: 10% ABV; Flocculation: low; Attenuation: 73-77%; Temperature Range: 46-56°F (8-13°C)

“From unveiling a new commemorative set of Yeast Strains honoring our heritage and history, to participating on the tradeshow floor, Wyeast is looking forward to introducing our incredible collection of pure liquid yeast cultures to clients and friends visiting Oregon for the 2015 Craft Brewers Conference,” said Christopher Pryor, Director of Sales & Marketing for Wyeast Laboratories.

Be sure to visit the Wyeast Laboratories exhibit booth and beer station at #2257 and #2358.