In my years as a brewer, I’ve been asked a myriad of questions about the ingredients I use. One question that keeps popping up is, “Does honey contain wild yeast?“ In many cases, yes, honey does contain wild yeast. But there’s a little more to it than that. While it’s true that honey naturally contains…
How long does a gallon of wine take to ferment? The process of fermenting wine is a complex and delicate one, and the time it takes can vary depending on several factors. In general, primary fermentation can take anywhere from 5 to 14 days, while secondary fermentation and aging can last several months or even…
Mead, the age-old honey wine, is gaining increasing popularity among homebrew enthusiasts. The process of brewing mead is relatively simple, but it requires a keen understanding of the ingredients involved, particularly the yeast. The question I often get asked is, “how much yeast per gallon of mead?”. I use approximately 1 packet, or 5 grams,…
As a seasoned brewer, I have been asked countless questions about various types of drinks. One of the most frequently asked questions is, does Hennessy Cognac have sugar? To answer this question directly, Hennessy Cognac does not have any added sugar. However, there are certain natural sugars present in the drink due to the fermentation…
As a home brewer and frequent traveler, I have often wondered if carrying my prized bottles of champagne in my checked luggage would result in an explosive disaster. And even though I never experienced this myself (always drank my champagne before flying…), I have spent time researching, experimenting, and even consulting experts to answer this…
Cider making is a time-honored tradition that dates back centuries. It’s a process that requires patience, skill, and a love for quality fruit. One question that I often get asked is, “Can you make cider from fallen apples?“ The answer is usually a “Yes!“. Not only can you make cider from fallen apples, but they…
How long does moonshine last? This is a common query among those who love this classic and potent homemade brew. Just like other spirits, if properly stored, moonshine can last indefinitely. However, this doesn’t mean its quality remains the same throughout. In fact, the flavor, aroma, and overall quality of moonshine can degrade over time.…
The art of brewing requires both technical skills and creative flair. One of the most critical components in homebrewing is the airlock. But what exactly is it and how do you use one? To put it simply, an airlock is a device that allows carbon dioxide to escape from your fermenter while preventing outside air…
You’ve brewed your first batch, and it’s now time to move on to the secondary fermentation process. But the question pops up: is a bucket or carboy better for secondary fermentation?. In simple terms, both buckets and carboys have their pros and cons. It all depends on your specific brewing needs and preferences. Personally, I…
Have you ever found yourself with a warm beer in hand, impatiently waiting for it to chill in the freezer? We’ve all been there, and the question on everyone’s mind in such a moment is: How long does it take for beer to get cold in the freezer? The answer is that it takes approximately…