Making mead is a grand and ancient tradition, a craft that involves a delicate balance of ingredients, temperatures, and time. But how can you tell if your mead has gone bad? In this post, we will discuss the signs that your mead may not be fit for consumption, focusing on the smell, looks, taste and…
The world of brewing is indeed a vast one, with a myriad of beverages to explore and enjoy. Among the many fermented drinks you might come across, two that often cause confusion are cyser and cider. The main question is: What’s the difference between cyser and cider? In this blog post, we shall delve into…
As a passionate and experienced brewer, I often get asked the question, “How long does it take for fermentation to start?” This is a critical aspect of the brewing process and one that can significantly impact the quality of your final product. The fermentation process starts almost as soon as the yeasts is rehydrated and…
Discover the fascinating world of ice beer, its history, taste, and how to craft your very own version.
The proofing process is crucial in moonshine production as it determines the alcohol content and overall quality of the final product. Proper proofing ensures a consistent taste and potency. Traditional methods of proofing moonshine include using a hydrometer or a proofing parrot. These tools provide accurate measurements of the alcohol content, allowing the distiller to…
Apple juice and cider can be affected by a variety of microbes during different stages of their production. I am a microbiologist by education, so this topic is of particular interest to me! These microbes can originate from the apples themselves, the equipment used for processing, the water, or the environment in which the apples…
As an experienced brewer, one question I get asked a lot is, “Can you open the lid during fermentation?”. The short answer to this is: No, you shouldn’t open the lid during fermentation if you can avoid it. The further the fermentation has progressed, the worse the effects of opening the lid. In general, it…
As a brewer with years of experience and a deep passion for the microscopic wonders of fermentation, the question I hear most often is, “How much yeast nutrient should I use per gallon?” For optimal fermentation, use these yeast nutrient recommendations per gallon: beer requires 0.25 to 0.5 grams, cider needs 0.5 to 1 gram…
What is Cyser? Well, Cyser is a type of mead that is created by fermenting honey with apple juice or cider. Its flavour profile is a unique blend of the sweetness of honey and the tartness of apples, resulting in a potent and delightful drink that has been enjoyed for centuries. As an experienced brewer,…
Hello fellow brewers and honey wine enthusiasts! I’ve been a professional brewer and microbiologist for over two decades, and if there’s one thing I’ve become passionate about, it’s the art of making mead/honey wine. Today, I want to share with you my personal one gallon honey mead recipe. This is a recipe I’ve perfected over…