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…
As a seasoned brewer and a lover of all things alcohol, I’ve found myself involved in various discussions and debates about the storage and care of liquor bottles. A common question I often encounter is, “Will a liquor bottle explode in a hot car?”. The short answer is, generally no, most liquor bottles will not…
When it comes to the art of brewing, there’s no denying that oxygen plays a crucial role – but only at the right time. In the early stages of brewing, oxygen provides the yeast with the energy it needs to reproduce and kick start the fermentation process. However, oxygen can be a brewer’s worst enemy…
As a seasoned brewer, I often get questions about the quantity of yeast to add when brewing. The yeast type certainly matters – but does the amount really matter? The short, simplified answer is yes, but only to a certain point and not as much as you might think! This is because the growth rate…
Whiskey making is a craft that involves various techniques, processes, and ingredients, each contributing to the final product’s unique flavor, aroma, and character. One of the most debated topics among whiskey enthusiasts and distillers is the difference between sweet mash and sour mash. Both methods have their merits and drawbacks, but which one is the…
Does home brewing save you money? The answer is both yes and no. It depends on various factors such as the type of beer you brew, the equipment you use, and how much you value your time. As an avid home brewer, I’ll be sharing my personal experiences and insights to help you determine if…
As a long-time brewer and cider enthusiast, I’ve often been asked a question that seems to concern many people: Does hard cider contain methanol? The quick answer is yes, but in very small amounts that are generally not harmful to us. It is formed naturally in the apple juice and is present at about 25…
Bread yeast, scientifically known as Saccharomyces cerevisiae, is a popular choice for homebrewers looking to make their own alcoholic beverages. One of the most frequently asked questions by beginning brewers is: how long does bread yeast take to ferment sugar into alcohol? The simple answer is that fermentation typically takes anywhere from a few days…
When you’re brewing your own beer, it’s vital to keep an eye on the sugar levels. The sugar content in your beer is what the yeast feeds on to produce alcohol, but too much or too little can drastically affect your final product. To measure this, brewers use a tool called a hydrometer. However, temperature…
The issue of glass carboys breaking Glass carboys are a popular choice among homebrewers for fermenting their beer and wine. However, there have been instances where glass carboys have unexpectedly broken, causing damage, mess, and potential safety hazards. I have now heard from several brewers that their glass carboy fermentation vessels suddenly break out of…