Oxygen is indispensable in the metabolism of yeast, an absolute vital component. Then there is oxidation. Once primary fermentation begins, O2 is a mortal enemy, sure to bring ruin upon the best laid plans. Oxidation occurs with improper handling and is avoidable. Oxidation occurs when oxigen enters your beer during or after fermentation. It results in …
When Does Oxidation Occur in Beer and How to Avoid it? Read More »
The difference between an award-winning brew and a funky mess is how the brewer controlled the temperature during the entire brewing process. Making beer is not easy, but the concept is, you just let yeast convert your sugary wort into beer. A proper wort, though, with the right extraction of fermentable sugars, can only be …
7 Best Home Brewing Thermometer: Which One to Pick? Read More »
The increasing trend of dry-hopping and double dry-hopping our brews has changed the way we see beer, especially the IPA styles. The world of hops is more varied and exciting than ever, with a myriad of alternatives from all corners of the earth offering astounding bitterness and aromatic profiles. Making the most out of the …
What Are the Best Hops for Dry Hopping Your Homebrew? Read More »
The next time you have a crystal-clear beer in your hand, you can thank Whirlfloc tablets. As much as we like to think about beer as an all-natural product, several ‘external’ components are involved. Don’t get me wrong, Whirlfloc tablets are actually a natural product made from Irish moss and purified carrageenan, but let’s start …
Are Whirlfloc Tablets Necessary For Brewing (Good) Beer? Read More »
Without considering your expertise, your beer will only be as good as the quality of your ingredients. That means you need to buy the good stuff, but also store it properly. We’ve seen craft brewers repeatedly tossing out their grains because they were swarming with small flies or worse. Grains are super nutritious, and that …
How Long Do Milled Grains Last And How To Store Them? Read More »
Hops are one of the most crucial ingredient in beer. Yes, they add lovely aromatics and an addictive bitterness to our favorite beers, but they also protect them from spoilage. Today, you’ll find hop flowers in either pellets or whole cones. Either way, you must take care of them to make the most of their …
How Long Do Hops Last? Do They Expire for Homebrewing? Read More »
Cooling wort for beginning homebrewers is a modest challenge. It takes time, ice, and patience. Cool your wort quickly and efficiently or face unwanted consequences. Many things could go wrong in waiting overnight. There are cooling contraptions for advanced brewers or for the beginner, the handy 8 lb. bag of ice bought from the Quick-Pick. …
3 Consequences of Leaving Wort to Cool Overnight Read More »
Fermentation is a tricky business. Sometimes the yeast prematurely rests on the bottom. Activity all but stops. What to do!!?? One is tempted to stir it. Once in the fermentor, the wort shouldn’t be stirred. The beer is vulnerable, so moving or touching it could introduce oxygen or bacteria that could spoil the beer. If …
Yeast is often an overlooked and underappreciated component to our passionately created homebrews. Dry yeast is a smart and simple place to begin when first making beer. It has its merits and limitations. Dry yeast offers a reliable fermentation media and while already resilient, rehydration helps to kickstart it. It adds more volume to the …
Do You Really Need to Rehydrate Your Dry Yeast Before Pitching? Read More »
An airlock is probably one of the first things a homebrewer should get. Beginner or not. If yours goes missing, or you simply haven’t got yours yet, there are a few inventive solutions. Airlock alternatives proposed by the craft brewing community. I’ve browsed the most passionate home brewing forums, Reddit threads and blogs to determine …
Airlock Alternatives: No Airlock? I’ve Got You Covered Read More »
