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,…
As a professional brewer, I’ve been fortunate enough to experience firsthand the intricate dance between traditional and modern cider-making techniques. Throughout this journey, I’ve come to appreciate the rich tapestry of history that envelops this craft. With that being said, how exactly do ancient methods of cider production contrast with today’s techniques? The primary distinction…
Hey there, fellow cider enthusiasts! I’m a professional brewer who’s spent countless hours exploring the world of cider, from selecting the perfect apple varieties to understanding the intricate nuances that contribute to that refreshing glass of amber delight. Today, we’re diving deep into a topic that’s close to my heart: the significance of soil and…
As an experienced brewer, one question that I often get asked is, what’s the difference between Cyser and Mead? It’s not a surprising question considering that these two beverages share quite a few similarities. However, they are not interchangeable. In a nutshell, mead is a fermented beverage made primarily from honey, water, and yeast, while…
As a brewer, I often get asked about the different types of beverages that can be made at home. One question that frequently pops up is: Can you use pasteurized cider for cyser? The short answer is, yes, you can. But the process and the outcome might differ compared to using fresh, unpasteurized cider. For…
The answer is a resounding yes! You absolutely can make cider with crab apples. Believe me, I’ve done it myself, and the results were nothing short of remarkable. They do have a more tart and bitter taste, but adding some ordinary cider in will help adjust it to your taste! I’ve had great success making…