As a brewer, I’ve been asked many times about the temperature needed to kill yeas in winemaking. Understanding the right temperature for yeast is critical because it’s the main driving force behind fermentation process. When the temperature is too high, you risk killing the yeast, and when it’s too low, the yeast may become inactive.…
Mead has been a cherished beverage for thousands of years, enjoyed by ancient civilizations and modern societies alike. As avid mead home brewer, I’ve been fascinated by the alchemy-like process of turning honey, water, and yeast into a delicious, intoxicating libation. One of the questions I often get from budding mead makers is: When do…
Shaoxing wine is a famous Chinese cooking wine that has been used for centuries in various dishes and sauces. It is made from fermented rice and has a unique, rich flavor that adds depth to many recipes. Many people wonder how long does Shaoxing wine last and how to store it properly. In this blog…
When you’re making fruit mead, the details matter. The ingredients, the process, and even the tiny additions can all make a huge difference in the final product. One of those little details that can have a big impact is pectic enzyme. So, how do you use pectic enzyme in fruit mead brewing? Pectic enzyme is…
Cider is a popular drink across the globe, but few places have as rich an association with the beverage as Ireland. So, what is Irish cider? Simply put, Irish cider, also known as hard cider, is an alcoholic beverage made from fermented apple juice after Irish traditions. It’s a drink steeped in history and tradition,…
Mead, also known as honey wine, is one of the oldest known fermented beverages, with a rich history dating back thousands of years. As a brewer, I’ve had the privilege of partaking in the creation of this ancient drink, and one of the most critical steps in the process is knowing when to bottle mead.…
Brandy, a spirit traditionally made by distilling wine, is a beloved drink worldwide. But what if I told you that you could make brandy without the complex, expensive process of distillation? Yes, it is possible to make something close to brandy without heat distilling. You can approximate real brandy by adding neutral already distilled spirits…
As an experienced brewer, I have spent years experimenting with various methods, ingredients, and techniques to create unique and flavorful spirits. One of my favorite homemade creations is Japanese moonshine, also known as “shōchū” (焼酎) or “doburoku” (どぶろく). This traditional Japanese distilled beverage, typically made from rice, barley, or sweet potatoes, has a rich history…
Tej, also known as Ethiopian honey wine, is a traditional fermented beverage that holds great importance in Ethiopian culture. It is made from a mix of honey, water, and gesho leaves, which give it a distinct flavor. Tej is often enjoyed during festive occasions and is considered a symbol of hospitality. History and Cultural Significance…
I’ve been brewing for a long time, and one question I get asked quite a lot is: Why is apple cider so expensive? The simple answer is that it’s because of the high cost of production. But let’s dive deeper and explore all the factors contributing to the high price of this beloved beverage. The…