SafLager™?S?189 Dry Lager Yeast

Fermentis SafLager S?189

SafLager?S?189 is a dry lager yeast strain from Fermentis, originally sourced from the historic HŸrlimann brewery in Switzerland.

This strain is aimed at brewing clean, highly drinkable lagers that can carry subtle herbaceous or floral notes depending on fermentation conditions.

It’s engineered to work reliably across moderate temperature ranges and pitches, making it suitable for both hobby and professional brewers.

Technical Profile

• Attenuation: Approx. 80–84% under ideal conditions.
• Alcohol Tolerance: Up to approx. 9?11% ABV.
• Optimal Fermentation Temperature: ~12?15?°C ideal; workable in wider range ~9?22?°C.
• Flocculation: High — clears well and drops out cleanly.
• Typical Sensory Profile: Clean lager character with potential floral or herbal tones.

Recommended Usage

Pitch at rates of about 80?120?g/hl when fermenting in the 12?15?°C range.

If fermenting at lower temperatures (near 9?°C), increase pitch rate up to 200?300?g/hl.

You may choose to rehydrate the yeast before pitching or pitch directly—this strain offers robust performance either way.

Beer Styles

SafLager?S?189 is suited for a wide range of lager styles where clarity, drinkability, and subtle premium character are desired:

• Pilsner / Bohemian Lager: Delivers crispness with a refined edge.
• Munich Helles / Festbier: Supports malt?forward profiles with clean finish.
• Bock / Doppelbock: Handles higher gravity while maintaining clarity.
• American Adjunct Lager / International Lager: Neutral enough to let adjuncts or hops shine.

Brewer’s Tip

For best results, aim to keep fermentation temperature in the 12?15?°C range.

Once high krausen is reached, raise to ~18?20?°C for a short diacetyl rest, then lager cold for 2?4?weeks for maximum clarity.

This strain’s ability to drop clear quickly makes it great if you want to package relatively early — just ensure your cold crash or lagering phase is sufficient to let sediment drop out thoroughly.