My last batch of Kombucha tastes off

[CookiePie]

I'm not sure why or if I should dump it? It tastes weak & not sharp with the vinegar bite. It is had to describe, it tastes weak-ish but not sweet has a beer aftertaste. It doesn't taste as good as usual, but it is still kinda drinkable.

I keep it on top of the tv receiver (always have) becaue our house is cold. I'm wondering if that has thrown of the balance of yeast to bacteria?

Help!!! I love kombucha & I need to get it back to it's yummy-ness!!!

[dogmom327]

Did it grow a new baby scoby on top? If it did that's usually a good sign (and I'd be inclined to think the extra heat just threw the balance and the taste off) but ultimately, if it doesn't taste right--I wouldn't drink it. Kombucha is one of those things I'm picky about though because balance is important for making a safe drink.

[CookiePie]

So the warm spot on top of the tv box is 80 degrees & my house temp is 60. So do you think I'd be better off brewing it without the warm spot on the kitche counter at 60 degrees? I read that optimim brewing temp is 70-80, which is why I choose that spot. I have been brewing for 3 months & this is the first time I've run into a problem. Since brewing I have gotton 2 good babies. My babies tend to be very attached to the mother & tear if I try to seperate them so I've just been leaving them attached to the mother.

[dogmom327]

80 degrees isn't bad--given how cold your house is, that's probably a decent spot for it.

As long as a new scoby forms on top--it's a good sign--even if it's attached the mother culture.

Is it possible there was maybe a little food or soap left in the container the dishwasher missed? It's a long shot but that could throw the balance off too.

Personally, I'd start over with a new batch just to be safe

[blessedwithboys]

any chance you forgot to add in some liquid from your previous batch?

[CookiePie]

No. but I do think I bottled it a little prematurely. Maybe that is it & I'm just panicking for nothing!