Everyone Uses EC-1118… But Should You?

In this head-to-head yeast test, we finally settle a debate from a viewer: EC-1118 vs Premier Classique yeast— which one actually makes better mead? Using a simple 1-gallon traditional mead (just honey, water, and yeast), we removed as many variables as possible to focus purely on yeast performance, fermentation behavior, and—most importantly—flavor. 🍯 What We Did: 3 lbs wildflower honey 96 fluid oz water Split into two identical batches Same nutrient, same conditions, same timeline: 1/4 tsp Fermaid O: https://amzn.to/4cw6sb4 One batch with EC-1118: https://amzn.to/4e1TTI2, one with Premier Classique: https://amzn.to/4c2geRG _____________________________________ Tools We Used: Star San: https://amzn.to/3SXFoKg TRBOS: https://amzn.to/3WROzxD Our Favorite Pitcher: https://amzn.to/4dFWNzh Scale: https://amzn.to/4dxaqkr 2 Gallon Brew Bucket: https://amzn.to/4tm30Ia Spaddle: https://amzn.to/4bM43IQ Baster: https://amzn.to/3DXs2c8 Hydrometer and Graduated Cylinder: https://amzn.to/4ow8gXz Auto Siphon: https://amzn.to/4cz8VRr 1/2 US Gallon Fermenters with Airlocks: https://amzn.to/48BQv1V We use the Amazon Affiliate Program for these links and we DO receive a small commission if you purchase using our links and all this comes at no additional cost to you! _____________________________________ We tracked: Fermentation speed Gravity changes week-by-week Bubble behavior (yes, it gets interesting) Clarity and final gravity And of course… taste test results 🧪 The Result? They were surprisingly close—but one yeast had a noticeable edge in flavor. Is EC-1118 really the “neutral workhorse” people claim? Does Premier Classique bring something unexpected? Watch and decide for yourself. 🔬 Key Takeaways: Both yeasts handled ~13% potential ABV easily Fermentation speeds were very similar Flavor differences were subtle—but real One had a distinct late-finish note you may or may not want If you’ve ever argued about yeast choices—this one’s for you. 👍 Like what we do? Subscribe for more brewing experiments, mead making, and real-world tests. _____________________________________ Become a City Steading VIP - Click to learn more http://www.city-steading.com/vip-club _____________________________________ Want more City Steading? Website: http://www.city-steading.com Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/citysteading #meadmaking #homebrewing #winemaking #yeastcomparison #ec1118 #brewing #mead #brewathome #yeasttest