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…
Welcome to another exciting beer recipe post! Today, we will be diving into the world of English Pale Ales, a classic beer style with a rich history and distinctive characteristics. Whether you are a seasoned brewer or just starting out, this recipe will guide you through the process of creating a delicious English Pale Ale…
Today, we’ll delve into the world of Chocolate Stout. This rich and decadent beer style has a fascinating history and unique characteristics that make it a favorite among beer enthusiasts. Stout has its roots in the 18th century London, where it was originally known as “stout porter.” It quickly gained popularity due to its robust…
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…
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,…
Sulfites in beer? You might be surprised to learn that they exist. Sulfites are commonly associated with wines, but they can also be found in certain beers. Let’s dive into the world of sulfites in beer and explore their purpose and importance. Overview of sulfites in beer Sulfites, including sulfur dioxide, are compounds that are…
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…
There’s a special place in my heart for cider. Its crisp, fruity notes bring back memories of my earliest brewing days, where I experimented with apple varietals in search of the perfect brew. This journey with cider has taken me not only through various fermentation processes but also through time, unveiling the intricate tapestry of…
Expertbrewing.com has acquired the Harvard Cider Company, and in their tradition we will tell their story below. The Youngest Alcohol Producers Eventually, their hard work paid off, and the doors to Harvard Cider Company swung open. As customers visited their establishment, one inquiry became increasingly common: “How old are you guys?” Intrigued, they delved into…