Author: Mark Thomsen

  • Shiner Bock vs. Lone Star: Texas Beer Showdown

    Shiner Bock vs. Lone Star: Texas Beer Showdown

    When it comes to Texas beers, two names frequently pop up: Shiner Bock and Lone Star. These beers are not only popular in the Lone Star state but have garnered attention and fans all across the country. So, which one stands tall in this classic showdown? Shiner Bock vs. Lone Star: If I had to…

  • How To Avoid Krausen Blowout? (5 Tips!)

    How To Avoid Krausen Blowout? (5 Tips!)

    As a seasoned brewer, I’ve had my fair share of krausen blowouts. This is a common occurrence, especially for beginners, but it is entirely avoidable. To avoid krausen blowout, you need to understand what causes it and how to mitigate these factors. This blog post will take you through the essential steps and best practices…

  • What Happens if You Add Too Much Yeast to Beer?

    What Happens if You Add Too Much Yeast to Beer?

    Beer, a beloved alcoholic beverage made from fermented grains and hops, has been cherished for centuries. While beer crafting is relatively straightforward, it requires the addition of yeast to initiate the fermentation process. Adding a significant amount of yeast to your brew at the outset can kickstart fermentation and expedite the beer-making process. However, you…

  • Does Fermenting Beer Need To Be In The Dark?

    Does Fermenting Beer Need To Be In The Dark?

    Yes, fermenting beer should ideally be done in the dark. Especially if using a transparent fermenter! This is because light and heat can cause a chemical reaction in the beer, altering its taste and potentially reducing its quality. The beer can develop an unpleasant flavor often referred to as being “light-struck” or “skunked”. Now, let’s…

  • What Beers Do You Drink With An Orange Slice?

    What Beers Do You Drink With An Orange Slice?

    A refreshing beer with a slice of orange is a sight that instantly screams summer. But not all beers are suited to this citrusy garnish. So, what beers do you drink with an orange slice? Wheat beers, namely Belgian Witbiers and German Hefeweizens, are the perfect candidates for an orange slice. In the US, Blue…

  • Why Is There A Plastic Ball In Guinness Beer Cans?

    Why Is There A Plastic Ball In Guinness Beer Cans?

    If you’ve ever opened a can of Guinness Draught, you may have noticed a small plastic ball, or ‘widget’, bouncing around inside. It may seem perplexing to find a plastic ball in Guinness beer cans, but there is a method to this madness. The introduction of this unusual addition serves a specific purpose that goes…

  • Is Grolsch A Kolsch Type Of Beer?

    Is Grolsch A Kolsch Type Of Beer?

    The world of beer is as vast as it is exciting, with hundreds of styles and thousands of brands to explore. In this journey of discovery, you might have come across two names that sound somewhat similar: Grolsch and Kölsch. Although they rhyme, you might find yourself wondering: is Grolsch a Kölsch type of beer?…

  • Is Blue Moon A Hefeweizen Beer?

    Is Blue Moon A Hefeweizen Beer?

    In our beer-loving community, the question has circulated a lot: Is Blue Moon a Hefeweizen beer? The short and simple answer is no, Blue Moon is not a Hefeweizen beer; it is a Belgian-style wheat beer. However, the longer, more complex answer requires a deeper dive into the world of beer styles, brewing techniques, and…

  • How Long To Ferment Barley Wine?

    How Long To Ferment Barley Wine?

    How long to ferment barley wine? Barley wine is a complex and strong ale that typically requires a longer fermentation period than most other beer styles. The fermentation time can range from 2-3 weeks for primary fermentation, followed by an extended secondary fermentation or aging period of several months to over a year. In this…

  • How Many Ounces In A Yard Of Beer?

    How Many Ounces In A Yard Of Beer?

    How many ounces are in a yard of beer? A yard of beer typically holds 48 ounces of liquid, making it an impressive sight and a fun way to enjoy your favorite brew. As an experienced brewer, I have had my fair share of experience with the yard of beer and its rich history. In…