If you're taking it off at 12° F above the boiling point of water it will be very thick! Ours comes off at 7 degrees over (219±) depending on atmospheric pressure, which is then checked with the hydrotherm.
+1. Same here. I've actually let the hydrotherm start collecting dust. Doesn't need to be perfect for friends and family consumption. I take it to 219 and stop when I like the looks of the drip from ladle.
Batch boiling 100+ taps on my homemade AUF arch
Family of 7 that puts syrup on everything