From Block 15:
2012 Pappy’s Dark Bottle Information
We have had reports from a few of our fans that their 2012 Pappy’s Dark bottles are tasting off, specifically sour. Last month we sent a bottle into Wyeast laboratories for testing and it came back clean from bacteria and wild yeast. We have tasted several bottles from our cellar and have noted that a small amount do taste tart . As our bottling and corking operation is simple, leaving room for error in packaging, there is a chance for isolated issues to occur. After several reports, I think that the 2012 Pappy’s bottles do have more issues than what I would consider normal. Troubling to us is at which point the issue occurred in our brewing/maturing/ and packaging process.
As a precautionary measure we have begun an intense system clean, sanitize, purge, and auxiliary equipment swap out. We have temporarily suspended filling barrels until the purge is complete.
Coincidentally, we have been planning for and have ordered all the necessary components to set up a lab in our cellar. Cellar man Dakota who is currently enrolled in OSU’s Food Science program is heading off the lab. Soon, we will be able to track and test our beer from fermenter, to barrel, to bottle. If an issue is to occur in the future we will be able to discard a barrel or be able to pinpoint a problem prior to packaging.
I’ve always said that what I really like about working with barrels is the mysteries in them. They are porous and they are living, which leaves room for more error than working with stainless steel alone. Unless we pasteurize our bottles, I could never guarantee them to be perfect, however with our new plans we should get a hell of a lot closer!
2012 Pappy’s Bottle Refunds
We would like to offer gift cards for those that have experienced an off bottle of Pappy’s Dark. Additionally, if you have an unopened bottle, you may if desired return it to the brewery for a refund or gift card. If you are out of town please email brewery@block15.com for an electronic gift card. We will send giftcards for opened bottles through December 1st. After December 1st an unopened bottle must be returned for a refund.
Upcoming Figgy Pudding Bottles
Considering the information above, I do not recommend cellaring our upcoming Figgy Pudding bottles. The barrels we blended taste great and test at the same PH and gravity as when they were filled, and I don’t expect any issues, however I believe it is best to be cautious until our lab is set up. Please only purchase enough to enjoy this holiday season and keep cold.
If you ever experience an off bottle please shoot us an email. We not only will take care of you, but also are able to learn from these issues.
Thank you for supporting our small craft brewery. Whereas it is tough to know some of our fans have been let down by these issues we will look at this in a positive light as we move forward to bring you the finest craft beer possible.
Cheers,
Nick Arzner & The Block 15 Brewing Team
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