Brandy, a spirit traditionally made by distilling wine, is a beloved drink worldwide. But what if I told you that you could make brandy without the complex, expensive process of distillation? Yes, it is possible to make something close to brandy without heat distilling. You can approximate real brandy by adding neutral already distilled spirits…
As a seasoned brewer, I have had my fair share of challenges and triumphs when it comes to crafting the perfect cider. One of the most common problems I encountered when I started out, and a question that I often get from fellow brewers, is: Why did my cider fermentation suddenly stop? There are several…
Cider is a popular drink across the globe, but few places have as rich an association with the beverage as Ireland. So, what is Irish cider? Simply put, Irish cider, also known as hard cider, is an alcoholic beverage made from fermented apple juice after Irish traditions. It’s a drink steeped in history and tradition,…
Mead, also known as honey wine, is one of the oldest known fermented beverages, with a rich history dating back thousands of years. As a brewer, I’ve had the privilege of partaking in the creation of this ancient drink, and one of the most critical steps in the process is knowing when to bottle mead.…
When you’re making fruit mead, the details matter. The ingredients, the process, and even the tiny additions can all make a huge difference in the final product. One of those little details that can have a big impact is pectic enzyme. So, how do you use pectic enzyme in fruit mead brewing? Pectic enzyme is…
As an experienced brewer, I have spent years experimenting with various methods, ingredients, and techniques to create unique and flavorful spirits. One of my favorite homemade creations is Japanese moonshine, also known as “shōchū” (焼酎) or “doburoku” (どぶろく). This traditional Japanese distilled beverage, typically made from rice, barley, or sweet potatoes, has a rich history…
Shaoxing wine is a famous Chinese cooking wine that has been used for centuries in various dishes and sauces. It is made from fermented rice and has a unique, rich flavor that adds depth to many recipes. Many people wonder how long does Shaoxing wine last and how to store it properly. In this blog…
If you were a cider aficionado in the 80s and 90s, you’d undoubtedly recall the sweet, crisp taste of Woodpecker Cider. Its popularity made it a staple at many a gathering, with its distinctive green bottle and lively woodpecker logo. However, over the years, you may have noticed that this brand has gradually faded from…
The Brewing Process Understanding the Basics The brewing process for sour beers is similar to that of other beer styles, but with a few key differences. The primary distinction lies in the fermentation process, where specific bacteria and wild yeast strains are introduced to create the sour flavor profile. These microorganisms work together to break…
Michelob Ultra is quickly becoming a favorite among beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. Known for its low calorie and low carb content, it’s a great choice for those who want to enjoy a beer without worrying about the extra calories. But a question that often comes up is, “Is Michelob Ultra gluten free?” Michelob…