Definition

Noun: * Top fermenting yeast: A specific strain of brewer's yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) used in the production of ales. It is characterized by its fermentation activity at warmer temperatures (typically 15–24°C or 59–75°F), during which yeast cells rise to the top of the fermenting liquid to form a thick, frothy layer.

Usage

This is a technical term used primarily in brewing and microbiology. It describes the biological agent responsible for a specific fermentation process. * The brewer selected a traditional top fermenting yeast for the new pale ale recipe. * Unlike lagers, ales are brewed using top fermenting yeast.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often contrasted with bottom fermenting yeast (used for lagers), which works at cooler temperatures and settles at the bottom of the fermentation vessel.
• In historical brewing contexts, it may be referred to simply as "ale yeast."

Variants and Related Words

• Ale yeast: A common synonym for top fermenting yeast.
• Brewer's yeast: A general term for yeasts used in brewing, which includes both top-fermenting and bottom-fermenting strains.
• Fermentation: The metabolic process carried out by the yeast.
• Saccharomyces cerevisiae: The scientific species name for this yeast.

Synonyms

• Ale yeast

Antonyms

• Bottom fermenting yeast
• Lager yeast

Noun

1. brewer's yeast used in top fermentation of ale