As an experienced brewer who has spent countless hours experimenting with different ingredients, techniques and recipes, I can tell you that the process of making mead is a labor of love. Unlike brewing beer or making wine, mead making requires a bit more patience. But the question is, how long does mead take to make?…
Cyser is a delightful type of mead, a honey wine that is fermented with apples or apple juice. It has a rich history dating back to medieval times, and it’s enjoyed a resurgence in popularity in recent years, thanks to the growing interest in craft brewing and cider making. One of the most common questions…
Yeast is a critical ingredient in brewing, playing a crucial role in the fermentation process. Different yeast strains yield different flavors, aromas, and alcohol content in the final brew. Today, we’re going to look at low-temperature yeast strains, which are perfect for cold fermentation. So, what are some good low-temperature yeast strains? The top low-temperature…
When it comes to brewing cyser, a delightful blend of cider and mead, one question often pops up: how long should it be aged? In a nutshell, the ideal aging time for cyser is between 6 months to 2 years. However, this is a broad spectrum, and the actual aging time can vary based on…
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…
As a seasoned brewer, I’ve often puzzled over the role of yeast in brewing. This seemingly insignificant ingredient plays an enormous role in the final taste, aroma, and overall character of your brew. There’s a multitude of yeast strains available, each with its own specific qualities. So how do you pick the right one for…
If you’re an avid homebrewer or just a fan of mead, you might have heard of hydromel. But what is it exactly and more importantly, how long should you age hydromel? This post will delve into the world of hydromel, including its origins, making process, and the ideal aging time. The ideal aging time for…
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…
As an experienced home brewer, I understand the concerns that most new brewers have when it comes to figuring out if their fermentation is complete without using a hydrometer. While a hydrometer is a very useful tool for measuring the specific gravity of your brew, it’s not the only method available. You can tell when…
When it comes to brewing with honey, two names that commonly pop up are Hydromel and Melomel. Both are beverages created from the fermentation of honey, but they fall into different categories based on the additional ingredients (fruit) used and their alcohol content. So, let’s dive into the sweet world of honey brews and discuss…