SafAle S-04
Dry Ale yeast from Fermentis.
Lab
Fermentis· Ale · Dry · S-04
Fermentis· Ale · Dry · S-04Specs
Attenuation
74–82%
The share of sugars the yeast ferments out. Higher attenuation means a drier, stronger beer.
Optimal temp
12–25°C
54–77°F
The range where this strain ferments cleanly, without throwing off-flavors. Most brewers pitch near the low end.
Flocculation
High
How readily the yeast clumps together and drops clear once fermentation winds down.
Alcohol tolerance
≈11% ABV
The rough ABV ceiling where the yeast stresses out and stops fermenting.
Genetic traits
Phenolics
POF−
Ferments clean
Phenolically clean (POF-negative). No clove or spice, so malt, esters, and hops come through unmasked. The norm for American and British ales and most lagers.
Diastatic
STA-1−
Not diastatic
Does not carry the STA1 (diastaticus) gene. It attenuates normally, with no diastaticus over-attenuation or gushing risk.
Same strain, other labs
Potential substitutes for SafAle S-04
Common questions
- What is the SafAle S-04 equivalent?
- M36 Liberty Bell Ale Yeast and 1026-PC British Cask Ale — the same strain from other labs, the Whitbread (S-04) strain.
- What is SafAle S-04's attenuation?
- 74–82% apparent attenuation.
- What temperature should I ferment SafAle S-04 at?
- 12–25°C is the recommended range.
- What can I substitute for SafAle S-04?
- WLP002 English Ale Yeast, English Ale I, 1968 London ESB Ale, and OYL-016 Extra Special (formerly British Ale VIII).
Brew with SafAle S-04
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