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…
The proofing process is crucial in moonshine production as it determines the alcohol content and overall quality of the final product. Proper proofing ensures a consistent taste and potency. Traditional methods of proofing moonshine include using a hydrometer or a proofing parrot. These tools provide accurate measurements of the alcohol content, allowing the distiller 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…
Apple juice and cider can be affected by a variety of microbes during different stages of their production. I am a microbiologist by education, so this topic is of particular interest to me! These microbes can originate from the apples themselves, the equipment used for processing, the water, or the environment in which the apples…
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 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…
Making wine, a delightful and time-honored alcoholic beverage crafted from fermented grapes, has been cherished for centuries. Crafting wine is a straightforward process, but it necessitates the introduction of yeast to initiate the fermentation journey. While adding an ample amount of yeast to your grape juice when commencing the winemaking process can kickstart fermentation and…
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…