YeastMatch

SafAle K-97 substitute: what to use instead

SafAle K-97 (Fermentis)

If you cannot get SafAle K-97, this is the closest replacement and what changes.

Yes. LalBrew Köln, or White Labs WLP029 German Ale/Kölsch is a true substitute for SafAle K-97; they share the same strain lineage.
Gauge readout
Attenuation80 to 84 %
Alcohol tolerance9 to 11 % ABV
Fermentation temp18 to 26 C (64 to 79 F)
Attenuation50%75%100%
Alcohol010%20% ABV
Temperature02040 C
Substitution
SafAle K-97 (Fermentis)
LalBrew KölnWhite Labs WLP029 German Ale/Kölsch

Original strain vs substitute

Out ofSafAle K-97 (Fermentis)
Closest substituteLalBrew Köln, or White Labs WLP029 German Ale/Kölsch
Original attenuation80 to 84 %
Original alcohol tolerance9 to 11 % ABV
Original temperature18 to 26 C (64 to 79 F)

Notes

K-97 and LalBrew Köln are both dry Kölsch strains and WLP029 is the classic liquid Kölsch yeast, so any is a true substitute for the style.

All three ferment as ales and finish clean and delicate when cold-conditioned. K-97 builds a famously large firm head and drops slowly, so if you swap to Köln expect an easier ferment with slightly different head behaviour but the same clean Kölsch result.

What to buy instead

Related

Sources: Brewstock Beer Yeast Comparison Chart (White Labs / Wyeast / Omega / Fermentis / Lallemand cross-reference) · Fermentis SafAle K-97 product page