[rjharper]

I know that BCS states that you have to use San Fran lager yeast but has anyone tried using German lager strains? I've been building up a W34/70 population for a Helles but I need something fast and different and I was thinking a Cali common would be a good way to build up yeast and get a faster batch out. But would it even work? I've seen that it can add sulphury notes.

[hopfenundmalz]

If you are having it judged, some may say it ends up to clean. That strain is fairly clean up to 60F+, while the SF lager yeast is more estery at 60.

[rjharper]

Thanks Jeff,
Would fermenting it slightly warmer, say 64F make up for the reduced esters?

[hopfenundmalz]

Go even higher, 66 to 68F according to Wyeast for a Common. 2124 is said to be the same as WLP830 and 34/70.
https://www.wyeastlab.com/hb_yeaststrain_detail.cfm?ID=30

[Thirsty_Monk]

I think to have it more fruity you need to have open shallow fermenter.

[Stevie]

I recently made a common using WY2565 - Kolsch. Did not feel like buying a pack of yeast for only one batch and I had a large slurry already available. Came out a bit too clean at 62. Next time I will try it warmer.