Visual Cues that a Beer has Finished Fermenting??

[Kazi the Younger]

Aside from taking gravity readings, is it safe to go by any visual cues that a beer could be finished fermenting?

Is a beer basically completely done fermenting when all krausen has fallen from the top of the wort and the beer is basically clear on top?

[Nate Diggler]

The visual cues let you know when your yeast has quit... not necessarily when your fermentation is "done"... so definitely take gravity readings.

[Swamp Yankee]

I'm not an expert but I have a braggot fermenting right now and it's fairly clear on the top with a 1/2 layer of krausen on the bottom and it's still steadily bubbling, and it'been in the primary for 11 days now. So I'd have to say no to your question. I'm sure there are many other reasons why as well. Just my half a nickel input.


Swampuh love beer

[TapItGood]

A great visual of the finished beer is the taste! If it tastes finished it should look ready...

[Brew Engineer]

A great visual of the finished beer is the taste! If it tastes finished it should look ready...

Um... yeah.

I was going to say that the best "Visual" indicator is when you see the reading on your hydrometer, or refractometer...

[Bugeater]

After the pelicle forms and then drops, it is ready to bottle. At least that works for lambics. For anything else, use a hydrometer.

Wayne

[Steelers&Beer]

if you see me drinking the beer, it's done fermenting

everyone else thought the same smartass comment....

+1 to the hydrometer reading

[TampaBrew]

I have had beers drop multiple points while it looked "done" ... take gravity readings.