High Altitude Super Yeast

Scientists at University of Manchester have discovered an exciting new species of yeast that can withstand cooler conditions and they think it could help brewers create better lager.

Bring it on!

Working in collaboration with the National Collection of Yeast Cultures (!), the Manchester researchers say this new strain is related to the Saccharomyces family and similar  to the more common brewers’ and bakers’ yeast.

According to The Drinks Business this new species was discovered on an oak tree in the foothills of the Alps (and we have to ask who goes looking for wild yeast stains in the Alps to begin with?).

This new strain has adapted to cooler temperatures making it a potentially invaluable tool for brewers who rely on these kinds of yeasts to brew lagers.

You see, unlike ales which ferment at higher temperatures, lagers are fermented at cooler temperatures and then matured in cold-storage – hence the term lager which is the German word for storeroom or warehouse.

Thought to be the first major yeast find since 2011, this cold-weather yeast is considered by many to be a huge find that could possibly open the door to all kinds of beneficial brewing hybrids.

Yeast image credit: University of Manchester