Author: Andy

  • Apple Juice Vs Hard Cider For Cooking?

    Apple Juice Vs Hard Cider For Cooking?

    As a brewer and avid amateur cook, I’ve always been fascinated by the different ways that beverages can be used to enhance the flavor and aroma of various dishes. One of the most popular questions that I’ve come across in my culinary journey is the age-old debate: Why use hard apple cider instead of apple…

  • Difference Between Stouts And Ales?

    Difference Between Stouts And Ales?

    As a passionate home brewer, I have had the pleasure of crafting and tasting various styles of beer, and it never ceases to amaze me how diverse and unique each type can be. Two beer styles that are often misunderstood and confused are stouts and ales. Stouts are the darkest of ales due to the…

  • Does Potassium Sorbate Go Bad? (How long does it last?)

    Does Potassium Sorbate Go Bad? (How long does it last?)

    Being a brewer for several years now, I’ve always been fascinated by the various additives and preservatives that come into play during the brewing process. One such ingredient that has caught my attention is potassium sorbate. As a food preservative and wine stabilizer, it’s often used to prevent the growth of mold, yeast, and bacteria…

  • Is A Porter An Ale Or Lager?

    Is A Porter An Ale Or Lager?

    One question that comes up quite often is, “Is a porter an ale or lager?” Since this is such a popular question, I thought it would be a great topic for a blog post. So, let’s dive right in and answer this question: A porter is an ale, not a lager. Now that we have…

  • How to Make Mango Cider (Home Recipe Ideas!)

    How to Make Mango Cider (Home Recipe Ideas!)

    If you are a fan of fruity and refreshing ciders and would like to try something new, mango cider could be an exciting option. Here, we will guide you through the basic introduction to making mango cider at home. A Simple 3-Step Guide to Making Mango Cider Insight into Making Unique Mango Cider In addition…

  • Does Alcohol Kill Botulism Bacteria? (What Else?)

    Does Alcohol Kill Botulism Bacteria? (What Else?)

    From a young age, I learned that alcohol has numerous benefits and uses aside from being a social lubricant. It can be used as a disinfectant, a fuel source, and even a preservative. With such versatility, it’s only natural to wonder if alcohol can kill certain harmful bacteria, such as the one that produces the…

  • Best pH Meters for Brewing: My Top Picks!

    Best pH Meters for Brewing: My Top Picks!

    A pH meter is a must-have tool for any home brewer who wants to ensure their cider, wine or beer is of the highest quality and to avoid spoilage. Knowing the pH is important from the moment you harvest the fruit (or make your mash!) for your brew to the moment you bottle. One of…

  • What Is The Difference Between Seltzer And Hard Cider?

    What Is The Difference Between Seltzer And Hard Cider?

    In the ever-expanding world of alcoholic beverages, you may find yourself wondering about the differences between various types of drinks. In this post, we will explore the differences between seltzer and hard cider, two popular choices for those looking for a refreshing and flavorful alternative to traditional beers and wines. The main difference between seltzer…

  • Is Applejack the Same As Apple Brandy?

    Is Applejack the Same As Apple Brandy?

    Often mistakenly considered to be one and the same, these delectable libations share some similarities but also boast their own unique qualities and characteristics. Whereas they are both two apple liquors essentially distilled from apple cider, whereas Apple Brandy is heat distilled, Applejack is distilled using the cold distillation method also known as “jacking”. In…

  • What Is The Difference Between Mead And Hard Cider?

    What Is The Difference Between Mead And Hard Cider?

    Mead and hard cider are two popular types of alcoholic beverages that have been enjoyed by people for centuries. Both are made through the fermentation process, and both have unique, distinct flavors and characteristics that set them apart from one another. But, what exactly is the difference between mead and hard cider? Mead is a…