FAQ

CAN I BUY THese insect-associated Lachancea YEASTS ANYWHERE ELSE on the planet?

No. Our company has the exclusive license on the use of these yeast strains for non-grape fermented beverages. However, we have partnered with a growing list of distributors to make them available to you. You can now purchase The Original Wasp Yeast from AB Biotek under the Pinnacle Crisp Sour label (available from your local Country Malt Group representative.)

How many unique yeasts are in your portfolio?

We rely on a proprietary research and development platform to find yeasts in nature that can deliver high-performing fermented beverages to the world. We have a growing portfolio of unique, distinctive yeasts, many of which are lactic acid producers and super-aroma producers. Contact us to learn more about our portfolio of patented and non-patented yeasts which are still available for licensing opportunities.

Are these yeast ale, lager, or Brett strains?

None of the above. This is an entirely different genus of yeast. It behaves like a tame ale yeast that can make sour beer. Yes, that's right, sour beer.

I want to be the only brewery in my region with access to these yeasts. Is that possible?

Yes. We are currently open to exclusive licensing opportunities for a limited number of yeasts in our portfolio. Contact us to find out more.

ARE THESE YEAST LIKELY TO CONTAMINATE/INFECT MY OTHER BEERS?

No. Unlike many wild yeast, our strains are not likely to out-compete standard brewing strains. Standard cleaning practices are all that are necessary.

Has this yeast been used for commercial beer production?

Yes. This yeast has produced commercially available beers in the USA and we have 100% satisfaction from our brewery customers. See this page for details on where you can try them and what awards they have won. 

Can this yeast really make a sour beer without bacteria or other souring agents?

Yes. These yeasts have the ability to create both the alcohol and the lactic acid of a sour beer, without aging or the addition of other microorganisms. We have technical spec sheets available upon request.

Can these yeast make strong (high % ABV) beers?

Yes. These yeast can make ‘strong’ beers using high gravity wort.

CAN THESE YEAST MAKE low % ABV BEERS?

Yes. These yeast can make beers with low ABV that are highly drinkable.

Are these yeast GMO?

No. These yeast were harvested from nature.

These yeast came from insects...should I be worried about allergies to bees?

No. These yeast have been isolated from insects, but no insect parts are used in the making of the beer, nor in the propagation of the yeast. 

Are the flavors in these beers as good as people say they are?

Yes. 

can I use these yeast for making Cider?

Yes. Unbelievably good cider.

How long does it take for these yeast to make a sour beer?

These yeast can make sour beers with a pH of 3.1 under standard ale yeast fermentation times (two weeks). However, the specific acidity and pH of the product will depend on strain and brewing conditions.  

Do these yeast play well with hops?

Yes! These yeast can produce mouth-wateringly tart IPAs if desired, or IPAs with touches of honey or fruit flavors— no fruit or honey needed.

CAN I tell my patrons the adventure story of these yeastS?

Yes! We find that people are excited to learn that they are drinking a beer that came from a yeast inside insects. They get to share in the adventure. Check out our education and engagement page for resources we created or gathered to help you enhance your taproom experience.

Where can I learn more about this yeast and the story of wasp beer?

Learn more about the story of wasp beer from the TEDx Talk "On the Future of Flavor" by co-inventor, Dr. Anne A. Madden. Read more about how this research developed at North Carolina State University. Learn more about Dr. Madden and Dr. Sheppard's hunt for wild yeast here. 

WHERE CAN I GET BEER MADE FROM THIS YEAST?

Keep checking back for updates, or follow us on social media for up-to-date locations on selected breweries, meaderies, cideries, and distilleries are using this yeast to make better fermented beverages. 

Do you license these yeast to home brewers? 

Sadly, not yet. But keep checking back to see if our licensing structure changes!