As a home brewer with more than a few batches of cider under my belt, I know that one of the most critical steps in the process of making a delicious, well-crafted cider is knowing when to rack it. Racking is the process of moving your cider from one vessel to another, usually to separate…
For centuries, people have debated the merits of wine and beer. Both drinks have been popular throughout history, and both have been enjoyed by people from all walks of life. But which is better for your stomach? This is a question that many people have asked, and it’s not an easy one to answer. There…
Cider has been a popular beverage for centuries, often associated with cozy autumn months and crisp fall flavors. Made from fermented apple juice, it’s a go-to drink for many who enjoy its sweet and tangy taste. But for those who are health-conscious or have dietary restrictions, you may be wondering: does cider contain yeast? Yes,…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…