SafAle K-97 (German Ale / Kölsch)

Authentic German Ale Character • Kölsch-Style Crispness • Lager-Like Cleanliness, Ale-Speed Fermentation

SafAle K-97 is a German ale strain prized for producing crisp, clean, delicately balanced beers in the Kölsch and Altbier tradition — top-fermenting speed with nearly bottom-fermented polish. It captures that elusive middle ground between ale and lager that defines Cologne's and Düsseldorf's signature styles.

With 82% attenuation and high flocculation, K-97 ferments dry and crisp, then settles well to leave the pale, brilliant beer these styles demand.

Flavor & Aroma Profile

• Crisp, clean, subtly vinous German ale character
• Delicate white wine and pear notes
• Low ester production for an ale strain
• Dry, refreshing finish
• Soft floral lift that flatters noble hops

Fermented at the cool end, K-97 is remarkably lager-like and laser clean; warmer fermentation coaxes out gentle fruit while keeping the profile bright. Expect a vigorous, high-krausen fermentation — leave generous headspace.

Brewing Applications

SafAle K-97 is a staple ingredient in many German and hybrid styles, including:

• Kölsch
• Altbier
• German Pale Ale
• Wheat Beer (clean-profile)
• Cream Ale
• Pseudo-Lager

It is also a handy strain for crisp blonde ales when you want lager drinkability without lager timelines.

Usage Recommendations

Pitch one 11.5 g sachet into 5 gallons of standard-gravity wort, fermenting at 59–68°F. Ferment near 60–62°F for the cleanest, most Kölsch-true result, or warmer for quicker turnaround with light fruitiness.

After fermentation, cold-condition the beer for two to three weeks near freezing — the traditional brief lagering that gives Kölsch its signature smooth, polished finish.

Specifications

• Attenuation: 82%
• Flocculation: High
• Fermentation Temperature: 59–68°F
• Format: 11.5 g dry sachet
• Beer Styles: Kölsch, altbier, German pale ales, cream ales, pseudo-lagers

Whether you're crafting an authentic Kölsch, a coppery Altbier, or a crisp golden ale with lager-like finesse, SafAle K-97 delivers genuine German brewing character on an ale brewer's schedule.