What does cold conditioning involve?

Cold conditioning, often referred to as lagering, is a process used primarily in the production of lagers and some ales to improve clarity and flavor stability. This method involves gradually lowering the temperature of the beer, typically around 2°F (1°C) per day, allowing the yeast and proteins to settle out more effectively, leading to a clearer and cleaner-tasting final product. By accurately controlling the temperature reduction, brewers can also encourage the beer to develop desirable flavors while minimizing off-flavors that may occur if cooling occurs too rapidly.

This gradual cooling process is essential in achieving the right balance of flavor development while ensuring the beer’s stability and clarity, making it a critical step in the brewing process for styles that benefit from cold conditioning.