The 1980s were a decade known for its vibrant culture and economic changes. During this time, the beer industry experienced a significant shift, with the rise in popularity of cheap beers. During the 1980s, beer preferences in the United States were largely dominated by big-name brands and light lagers, although the craft beer movement was…
Can homemade cider be toxic? It’s a question that crosses the mind of many cider enthusiasts who first venture into the exciting world of home brewing. The simple answer is: yes, but only if certain precautions are not taken. In this blog post, we will delve into the risks associated with home cider brewing, such…
Refractometers are an essential tool for every cider maker, enabling them to precisely measure the sugar content of their brew. This guide provides useful information about using a refractometer in cider making. Description What is a Refractometer? A device used to measure sugar content of liquid sample How does it work? The device uses refraction…
Introduction to Conical Fermenters If you are a passionate home brewer, you might have come across the term “conical fermenters.” But what exactly are they, and why are they gaining popularity among home brewers? Let’s dive in and explore the world of conical fermenters. What are Conical Fermenters? Conical fermenters are specialized containers used in…
Introduction Cold crashing is the process of rapidly lowering the temperature of your brewed beer or cider before bottling or kegging. This process helps clarify the beer, remove unwanted flavors, and improve the overall taste by allowing solids like yeast and hop particles to settle at the bottom. But what if you don’t have a…
I recently purchased the Hydraulic Fruit Wine Press, specifically the 10.7 gallon size with filter bag and splash guard. As someone who enjoys making natural juices and cider, I was excited to try out this electricity-free and water-powered press. In this review, I will share my experiences with the product, highlighting the pros and cons,…
Conical fermenters are a popular choice for home brewers who want to take their beer-making to the next level. These specialized containers are designed to create a more controlled fermentation process, avoiding some of the racking and oxygen exposure usually associated with it. Not only do you avoid racking, but you can also do secondary…
Brewing hard cider is fairly easy, but as soon as you stray the slightest away from commercial yeasts and pasteurized apple juice, there is a risk of getting some unexpected flavors (good and bad!). Today we will talk about the bad ones. The “off-flavors” in cider brewing. Off-flavors are unwanted and undesirable characteristics that can…
As a seasoned bartender and spirits enthusiast, I’ve explored the vast world of liquor combinations, striving for the perfect blend of flavors and character. It’s a common question I get at events and gatherings: Can you mix whiskey and rum? The answer, in short, is yes. But as with all things related to mixology, it’s…
In my many years as a professional brewer, I’ve often been asked one fundamental question: What’s the difference between using wild yeast and cultured yeast in cider-making? Wild yeast, naturally present on fruit skins and in the environment, can offer unique and regional flavor profiles, potentially giving a cider a true sense of terroir. However,…