As an experienced brewer, one question I get asked a lot is, “Can you open the lid during fermentation?”. The short answer to this is: No, you shouldn’t open the lid during fermentation if you can avoid it. The further the fermentation has progressed, the worse the effects of opening the lid. In general, it…
As a brewer with years of experience and a deep passion for the microscopic wonders of fermentation, the question I hear most often is, “How much yeast nutrient should I use per gallon?” For optimal fermentation, use these yeast nutrient recommendations per gallon: beer requires 0.25 to 0.5 grams, cider needs 0.5 to 1 gram…
What is Cyser? Well, Cyser is a type of mead that is created by fermenting honey with apple juice or cider. Its flavour profile is a unique blend of the sweetness of honey and the tartness of apples, resulting in a potent and delightful drink that has been enjoyed for centuries. As an experienced brewer,…
As a seasoned home brewer, one of the questions I frequently get asked how much gypsum to add to mash when brewing beer? The answer to that isn’t as straightforward as you might think. It depends on several factors, including the type of beer you’re brewing, the water you’re using, and your desired flavor profile.…
As a seasoned brewer, I understand the concerns that many novice brewers have regarding the role of water chemistry in brewing. One of the most common questions I receive is, “How much gypsum to add to brewing water?” To answer this question, it is important to understand that the amount of gypsum (calcium sulfate) to…
In the world of brewing, there are many ingredients and processes that come into play to create the perfect pint. One such ingredient is gypsum, also known as calcium sulfate. But when should you add gypsum to beer? The answer to this question lies in understanding the chemistry of brewing and the role that gypsum…
Histamine sensitivity is a topic that’s garnered quite a bit of attention in recent years. For those of us who love a good brew, this can be particularly challenging. So, what’s a beer enthusiast to do? There are, in fact, some great low histamine beers available. Let’s dive into the specifics. What’s the Deal with…
As an experienced brewer, I have spent countless hours crafting different types of brews, from beer to wine, and of course, mead. Mead is one of the oldest known alcoholic beverages, created by fermenting honey with water, and occasionally adding fruits, spices, grains, or hops. One question that often comes up from both beginner and…
You’ve probably experienced it: the unexpected buttery taste in your freshly brewed beer, an ABV that doesn’t quite align with your calculations, or even that dreaded overpressurization resulting in a messy bottle eruption. Welcome to the world of “Hop Creep”, the uninvited guest in the brewing process. It’s not a game, nor is it the…
As a beer enthusiast who loves the rich flavors of Shiner Bock, I am always on the lookout for other brews that can deliver a similar taste experience. Shiner Bock has gained quite a following due to its unique combination of malty sweetness and smoothness. If you’re searching for beers that can satisfy your craving…