Malolactic fermentation is a fascinating process that can greatly impact the flavor, aroma, and overall quality of the final product. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into all aspects of malolactic fermentation, from its fundamental principles to its potential benefits and risks. We will explore the steps involved in the fermentation process, the key…
Stopping the fermentation process of cider is a crucial step for any cider maker who wishes to tailor the flavor and sweetness of their beverage. During the fermentation process, yeast converts the sugars in apple juice into alcohol, producing dry cider if the process goes to completion. However, if a sweeter cider is desired, or…
Malolactic fermentation (MLF) is a process in traditional wine- and cidermaking that converts malic acid, a naturally occurring acid in grapes and apples, into lactic acid – a more mellow acid known from yoghurt! This process not only changes the acid profile of cider, but also contributes to its flavor and stability. In this post,…
Stuck fermentation is a common issue that many homebrewers face. It occurs when the yeast stops fermenting before all the sugars have been converted into alcohol. This can result in a beer that is too sweet and has a low alcohol content. Restarting a stuck beer fermentation can be a challenging process, but it is…
Can homemade cider be toxic? It’s a question that crosses the mind of many cider enthusiasts who first venture into the exciting world of home brewing. The simple answer is: yes, but only if certain precautions are not taken. In this blog post, we will delve into the risks associated with home cider brewing, such…
Introduction to Conical Fermenters If you are a passionate home brewer, you might have come across the term “conical fermenters.” But what exactly are they, and why are they gaining popularity among home brewers? Let’s dive in and explore the world of conical fermenters. What are Conical Fermenters? Conical fermenters are specialized containers used in…
Introduction Cold crashing is the process of rapidly lowering the temperature of your brewed beer or cider before bottling or kegging. This process helps clarify the beer, remove unwanted flavors, and improve the overall taste by allowing solids like yeast and hop particles to settle at the bottom. But what if you don’t have a…
If you’ve recently taken up homebrewing, one of the biggest questions you’ll likely have is, “how do I know if my homebrew is fermenting?” This is a critical question because fermentation is the process that turns your mixture of water, malt, hops, and yeast into a delightful beer. The main sign that a homebrew (whether…
As a professional brewer and microbiologist, I’ve spent countless hours studying, researching, and of course, enjoying drinks of all kinds. Over the years, I’ve heard the question, “How long should I leave this drink in the freezer?” more times than I can count. The short answer? Most drinks take about 30 minutes to an hour…
As a passionate and experienced brewer, I often get asked the question, “How long does it take for fermentation to start?” This is a critical aspect of the brewing process and one that can significantly impact the quality of your final product. The fermentation process starts almost as soon as the yeasts is rehydrated and…