White Labs Yeast | WLP860 Munich Lager | PurePitch® Next Generation

Brew authentic Bavarian-style lagers with White Labs WLP860 Munich Lager Yeast | PurePitch® Next Generation, a premium liquid lager yeast originating from one of Germany's oldest breweries and selected for producing exceptionally clean fermentation with rich malt expression and a crisp, refined finish. Each 70 mL PurePitch® Next Generation pouch contains approximately 150 billion cells, providing enough healthy yeast to ferment a standard 5-gallon batch without requiring a starter for most moderate-gravity lagers. WLP860 is an excellent choice for brewers crafting traditional Märzen, Helles, Vienna Lager, Bock, Schwarzbier, and Dunkel with authentic German character and balanced drinkability.

WLP860 produces a smooth, clean fermentation profile that enhances toasty, bready, and lightly caramelized malt flavors while maintaining restrained ester production. Its medium flocculation promotes excellent clarification after proper lagering, allowing classic German malt character to take center stage. The result is a crisp, well-balanced lager with refined flavor, clean bitterness, and exceptional clarity.

This liquid lager yeast features medium flocculation, 68–72% attenuation, STA1 negative status, and an alcohol tolerance of 5–10% ABV. It performs best between 48–52°F (9–11°C) and is packaged in White Labs' PurePitch® Next Generation pouch, which contains approximately 150 billion cells for reliable pitching rates and consistent fermentation performance. The strain is specifically suited for traditional Bavarian and other malt-forward lager styles.

For best results, store refrigerated between 33–38°F and do not freeze. Pitch cold into well-oxygenated wort and maintain fermentation temperatures between 48–52°F throughout primary fermentation. While one pouch is suitable for most standard-strength lagers, a yeast starter is recommended for higher-gravity beers or older yeast. Proper oxygenation and adequate lagering time will help maximize clarity, malt expression, and overall fermentation performance.

Produced to White Labs' professional fermentation standards, WLP860 Munich Lager Yeast | PurePitch® Next Generation is widely used by homebrewers and professional brewers seeking dependable, authentic German lager fermentation. Its healthy cell count, clean fermentation profile, and consistent performance make it an outstanding choice for brewing classic Bavarian-inspired lagers with exceptional balance, clarity, and malt complexity.