I’m Impressed!
January 30th, 2007 | 
Author: Back in the latter part of 2005, I ordered a variety of dry yeasts from a vendor that offered a good variety in stock that I wanted to try. As well, they stocked White Labs “Sweet Mead Yeast,” which comes in liquid form.
Well, I misread the “Best Before” date on the vial of liquid yeast when it arrived. My eyes are getting dimmer, I guess – but I had read it as January 26 – 08 when in fact it was January 26 – 06. I’ve never used liquid yeast before, so it didn’t strike me as odd to read an expiry date just over a year away after receipt of it.
Last evening, I decided to make use of some time – and honey, and try a sweet mead using White Labs yeast. I took the vial out of the refrigerator where it has been stored since I received it, and started to prepare the honey and must while the yeast warmed up.
After my must was prepared, I took another look at the vial of liquid yeast, and realized that I had read the expiry date incorrectly.
So, I sent an email to the folk at White Labs, and JoAnne Carilli-Stevenson, their Sales and Marketing Manager was swift to respond. I had several emails with her throughout the day as she offered me advice and tips – and let me tell you – over a five dollar product, or whatever that vial cost me, I’m very impressed with White Labs’ – and JoAnne’s – willingness to respond to me practically immediately!
To be honest, I cannot do that myself with all of my own clients.
We’re still not exactly sure if this yeast that I’ve been keeping will indeed come along, but both JoAnne and I are crossing our fingers and giving it some time before I decide to resort to one of my dry yeasts that I have.
I put the yeast in an activator – and have seen no observable yeast activity – although I am smelling a “yeasty” smell that was not evident before. It’s also my understanding that liquid yeast, especially “Sweet Mead” yeast, can take a while to show signs of activity.
I’ll let you know how it goes. But regardless, Kudos to White Labs and JoAnne Carilli-Stevenson!
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