How long is too long?

[banger]

How long is too long to keep a beer in primary?

I've had a stout in primary for 5 weeks, just have not had time to bottle. Temp has been pretty constant and apart from 16 month old brewing apprentice trying to remove the airlock a couple of times, all seems well. What do you think?

[aurelius121ad]

I'd say it is a bit long and youre risking, what is it... autalisis (I know that isnt spelled right!), but you can always bottle it and give it a taste. As long as it tastes ok it should be alright after it has aged some in the bottle.

[Kevnlis]

Why not have a taste? I am sure it is fine, but your taste buds will not lie

[warra48]

You should be fine.
It's been fermenting at a cooler temperature, so the yeast have taken their time, and are likely still healthy. Autolysis is a possibility, but unlikely.
I'd bottle it. You have nothing to lose, especially if you taste your hydro sample and it is fine.

[Trough Lolly]

My best stouts are conditioned for 4-6 weeks at around 16c....have a taster and unless you have yeast autolysis or poor hygiene protocols it should be quite nice and certainly ready to bottle/keg.

Cheers,
TL