Category: BEER

Best Hydrometers for Homebrewing(Review 2019) – 3 types of hydrometer will help you determine the alcohol content in beer

Using a hydrometer is often overlooked by newcomers to the world of homebrewing. However, this step is painless to build in, easy once you know how and can save a batch from getting ruined. It also helps you know how much fermentation has taken place and can be used to help you determine the alcohol content of your beer by taking readings before and after fermentation. But what exactly is a hydrometer and how do you use one?

You might want to see this first: Best Conical Beer Fermenters or Best Homebrew Recipe Kits.

In this post, we will outline the answers to these questions, look into what considerations you need to make when buying a hydrometer by looking at the benefits or otherwise of the different types, and introduce you to some of our favorite hydrometers for different brewing processes and budgets. By the end, we hope we will have convinced you that using a hydrometer is an essential part of the brewing process for any homebrewer.

What is a hydrometer?

A hydrometer is a tool that can be used to measure how much fermentation has taken place in liquids such as beer and wine. When brewing beer this involves measuring how much sugars have dissolved in the wort by measuring the density of the wort against the density of pure water. Hydrometers will usually come with a graduated cylinder where a test liquid is poured to take a measurement for liquid density.

Hydrometers are usually shaped with a narrow stem to measure density underneath which sits a hollowed air-tight glass tube for buoyancy and a weight for stabilization. You then essentially float this in your beer that you have poured into a test jar and wherever the hydrometer settles you will be able to take a measurement from the long thin stem part which will have a scale printed on it. You can use readings taken before and after fermentation to calculate the alcohol content.

How do you use a hydrometer?

The good news is that using a hydrometer is actually a simple task once you’ve learned how. This means building this step into your brewing process is easy so long as you follow the golden rule of brewing beer – always sanitize your equipment! Once your hydrometer is sanitized all you need is a tube half full of the liquid you wish to measure. If this liquid is wort, then this can be extracted from your fermenter using a sanitized tool or, ideally, through your fermenter’s in-built spigot.

Now you are ready to take your measurement. Gently place your hydrometer into your tube of wort (which should be cooled) and allow it to float on its own. Once it has settled in place take a reading of where the liquid in your tube covers the scale on the stem of your hydrometer. Given you want to measure changes over time it is handy to have a diary or a pad of paper wherever you tend to take your measurements so you don’t have to keep these numbers in your head.

It is also a good idea to take only the readings you need to at set times to reduce the amount of waste drawn-out form your brew, ultimately you want to taste your beer not measure it. The key times to take readings are:

#Step 1 Before fermentation begins

#Step 2 When you think your beer may have finished the fermentation stage (or be nearing it)

#Step 3 2-3 days later take a further reading

#Step 4. If the reading had changed at step 3 take a further reading daily until you notice no change

How to calibrate a hydrometer

As with any measuring device, it is important to calibrate it regularly. Fortunately, it is easy to test whether your hydrometer’s accuracy is on the wane by placing it in purified water at room temperature. If you get a reading of 1.000, then you are fine to take the readings of your hydrometer at face value. Otherwise, for every point difference you will need to adjust your readings accordingly (eg. if it reads 1.001 you will need to add 0.001 to other readings). If you cannot wait for your wort to cool to room temperature, you will need to adjust your readings for this either by using a hydrometer temperature correction calculator or following the instructions that came with your hydrometer.

How to choose a hydrometer for brewing beer: understanding the different types of hydrometers

There are different types of hydrometers available that range in sophisticated and price range. In this section, we go through the three different types of hydrometers that you will come across.

#1 Thermohydrometer

A thermohydrometer contains a thermometer and measures temperature as well as specific gravity. With an inbuilt thermometer, this makes it easy to correct the temperature of the sample when you read the specific gravity and ensure that a consistent temperature is maintained. You can expect to pay between $10 and $15 for this type of hydrometer.

#2 Triple Scale Hydrometer

Triple scale hydrometers are the most commonly used hydrometers in the world of homebrewing and they are also the most affordable (starting from around $5). It has multiple functions and can measure Brix/Balling scale, specific gravity, and alcohol content. With a triple scale hydrometer, you will be able to measures a large range of specific gravity so you will be able to use it for most batches you brew.

#3 Precision Hydrometer

As the name suggests a precision hydrometer gives a more precise reading when measuring specific gravity. It can do this because the numbers are spaced out on a smaller scale on the hydrometer so a more accurate reading can be taken. For this reason, precision hydrometers measure a smaller range of gravity levels so you may need to purchase two hydrometers for certain batches of beer. Precision hydrometers are the most expensive type of hydrometer, costing around $30 apiece. They are a good investment if you want to ensure the readings taking are as accurate as possible.

Top 5 Best Hydrometers for Homebrewing 2019

As you can see, a hydrometer is an incredibly useful tool to have when making your own beer. It can help you to test the rate of fermentation as well as enabling you to measure the alcohol content of your beer. Check out our reviews below to find the perfect hydrometer for you.

#1 Best Triple Scale Hydrometer for Homebrewing: Brewer’s Elite Hydrometer & Test Jar Combo

With this excellent hydrometer in your repertoire, you are one step closer to brewing the perfect beer. Made by Brewer’s Elite this triple scale hydrometer will measure specific gravity levels between 0.99 and 1.16, alcohol between 0% and 20% as well as Brix Balling. The design of this hydrometer includes helpful color bands which assist you in identifying when your beer has completed the fermentation process which is particularly helpful.

With this set you will get more than a hydrometer, you will also receive a 250ml Test Jar to test your beer in, a durable hard case to keep your hydrometer in, as well as a bag and a brush for cleaning. From helping you know when the fermentation process is over, to measuring the alcohol content of your finished beer this hydrometer is an essential piece of kit that is also great value for money.

#Triple_scale #Hydrometer #Alcohol_content #Fermentation #Test #Beer #Hydrometer_reading #Gravity

#2 Best Thermohydrometer for Homebrewing: Brewing America Thermo-Hydrometer ABV Tester

If you like the idea of having a thermometer built into your hydrometer then take a look at this thermohydrometer from Brewing America. Constructed by experienced glassblowers in America out of lab-grade borosilicate glass this hydrometer is expertly designed as well as durable. In addition to being able to take accurate gravity readings, it can also tell you the temperature of your beer at the same time, allowing you to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the fermentation period.

Included in this set is also a glass test jar which is designed to take the minimal amount of liquid out of your wort as possible so that you don’t waste your beer. You will also receive a bottle brush to clean the test jar, a sturdy box to store your hydrometer in safely, and a microfiber cloth. There is also a helpful instruction booklet included on how to use your hydrometer properly. All of the equipment is made out of recycled materials and are non-toxic which is another great feature of this hydrometer set.

#Thermohydrometer #Brewing_America #ABV #Tester #Specific_gravity #Hydrometer_scale

#3 Best Hydrometer Kit for Beer Making: Chefast Hydrometer and Test Jar Combo Kit

This triple scale hydrometer comes in a kit which comes with a 250ml market test jar, cleaning brush, cloth for cleaning your hydrometer carefully and a canvas bag to keep it all in. The hydrometer itself measures specific gravity between 0.99 and 1.17, alcohol volume levels between 0% and 20%, and Brix/Balling between 0-35. Containing everything you need to measure if fermentation is complete and check the ABV rating of your finished beer this kit has everything you need for this aspect of homebrewing.

This hydrometer kit is great value for money and also comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee lasting 90 days so you can simply return it if you are not happy with the product. Accurate readings from the hydrometer are also warranted for one year. Ensure you achieve the best flavor possible for your homebrewed beer with this hydrometer kit.

#Hydrometer #Kit #Chefast #Alcohol #Fermentation #Scale #Gravity #Homebrew

#4 Best Value Hydrometer for Homebrewing: SOLIGT Triple Scale Hydrometer and Glass Jar

Beer making doesn’t need to be expensive and this hydrometer is proof of this fact. For just $15 you will receive a triple scale hydrometer which gives accurate and easy to read measurements of both the fermentation phase of your beer and its alcohol content. With a range of specific gravity between 0.99-1.17, Brix/Balling from 0-35 and the ability to measure alcohol content between 0%-20% this hydrometer should suit the needs of most homebrewers.

The glass test tube that comes as part of this set is smaller than normal measuring 125ml which is a big enough sample to test your beer, yet doesn’t waste too much of your precious homebrew. Plus, you will also receive a stainless steel bottle brush and a strong case to keep your hydrometer in so this kit really does offer great value for money. With 100% satisfaction money-back guarantee you really can’t go wrong with this hydrometer kit from SOLIGT.

#SOLIGT #Hydrometer #Alcohol_content #Hydrometer_scale #Test #Fermentation #Craft_beer #Homemade

#5 Best Hydrometer for Versatility: Goodmannns’ Hydrometer & Glass Test Jar Triplescale

If you feel a little strong-armed into buying a hydrometer but have ultimately come around to the idea, then you might like this versatile piece that comes with 3 scales and is suitable for beer and wine brewing. It also comes with a glass test tube perfectly shaped to ensure your hydrometer gives you a perfect reading for longer. With a lifetime guarantee, you’ll also be glad with your investment when it saves a batch of your beer from going off time and again.

Other pluses about this hydrometer are that: unlike most hydrometers, this hydrometer contains no lead or mercury making it suitable for the environmentally conscious brewer; it gives high-quality readings with no need to calibrate as free replacements are available if the readings deteriorate, and; it comes with a useful step-by-step guide and the temperature correction chart. The downside of this hydrometer is that it is more expensive than most.

#Hydrometer #Precision #Precision_Hydrometers #Homebrewing #Craft_Beer

Conclusion

If you are new to brewing beer, then it is easy to think you can get away with saving the pennies on a hydrometer but any brewer worth their salt will know this is not the bit of kit you want to be without. Indeed, a hydrometer can help you rescue a batch on the brink of going off and notice if something is up with your fermentation. In this list, you’ll find a hydrometer suitable for your brewing needs no matter what your budget or brewing intentions.

Best Yeast for Brewing Beer(Review 2019) – 5 factors will make you pick the right yeast for the most delicious homebrew

When it comes to setting out on the path of brewing your own beer, there is no problem taking the basic option of picking a yeast packet with a name that matches the type of beer you are brewing. Be that American ale yeast for making a crisp pale ale or a Czech lager yeast to make a refreshing Pilsener. However, as you get more into brewing, it is worth understanding more about your ingredients and learning how to recognise good quality yeasts that are going to add to the flavors of your brew.

You might want to see this first: Best conical beer fermenters

In this post, we will take a look at what brewing yeast is, the main factors you need to consider when deciding on yeast (namely: attenuation; flocculation; alcohol tolerance; temperature range, and; sensory profile), the meaning of these terms, and some of the best yeasts for different brewing processes that we love to use.

What is brewing yeast?

Brewer’s yeast, as its name might suggest, is used to brew beer but is also suitable for use making bread. It can also be used as a nutritional supplement thanks to having a high chromium content which is good for maintaining blood sugar at normal levels as well as being rich in B vitamins. It is actually made up of a one-celled fungus called ‘Saccharomyces cerevisiae’ which ensures it has a bitter taste without producing an overly phenolic flavor.

Phenolic flavors are generally considered as off-flavors when they come through in beer as they have low flavor and aroma thresholds. This means that people can taste and smell them even when there is only a low concentration of them in your beer and they become overpowering. Brewer’s yeast and lager yeast (sometimes just called ale yeast) naturally mutates without producing phenolic flavors, ferments quickly, tolerates moderate levels of alcohol, takes on a good sugar profile, and can survive the anaerobic conditions that come along with fermentation.

Key factors when buying brewer’s yeast

If you are going to fully understand how to adapt the flavors of your beer, you are going to want to understand how different yeasts react under different conditions. Here, we will outline the 5 major considerations you need to understand when it comes to picking the right yeast for the most delicious homebrew.

#1 Attenuation

This refers to how much of your wort sugars will turn into alcohol rather than be turned into carbon dioxide during the fermentation process. Therefore, when a beer is more attenuated it will have a higher alcohol content. A higher attenuation also has a drier taste, with lower attenuation more likely to have a sweeter finish and be heavy-bodied. Apparent attenuation is the actual level of attenuation at the end of the brewing process.

To calculate apparent attenuation levels you need to take a hydrometer reading of the density of a solution in comparison to pure water before (original density – OD) and after fermentation (final density – FD). Then:

The level of attenuation you are aiming for depends on both the type of beer you are brewing and your own personal tastes. An apparent attenuation reading of below 72 percent is considered low attenuation, whilst a reading of 78 percent and above is considered high. For mid-range apparent attenuation, you are looking at a reading of 73-77 percent.

#2 Flocculation

Another word that puts off new brewers is flocculation. This simply refers to the process whereby yeast clumps together towards the end of fermentation and either drops to the bottom or floats to the top of the fermentor. This is an important process as, when it does this, it leaves behind a clear beer. Like with attenuation, yeast can flocculate low, medium, or high and a low (or early) flocculation will lead to a sweeter and less attenuated beer.

Brewers have naturally selected more flocculent yeast over centuries of cropping yeast when it has flocculated, after which it can be reused. Wheat beers tend to use low flocculating yeast, leading to some of the yeast hanging around in the beer even after fermentation and the iconic cloudy look. British ale tends to contain high flocculating yeast, whilst American ales typically fall in the middle flocculation range. If you’re brewing an English ale, don’t pick a yeast with low flocculation.

#3 Alcohol tolerance

This one is pretty straightforward and simply refers to the level of alcohol a yeast strain is able to cope with before it becomes inactive. This is also important when brewing in different climates as hotter brewing temperatures will likely demand a yeast that is able to cope with the rapid fermentation this causes (as well as the heat itself). If you want a nice session ale, then there’s no point getting a yeast with a really high alcohol tolerance.

#4 Temperature range

The temperature range refers to the temperature yeast works best at rather than the range at which the yeast stops functioning. This is important to remember as flavors will change when fermentation occurs above the best range associated to a given yeast type and below this range you are likely to have less fermentation altogether leading to weak beer! When you are considering what temperature range is suitable for your needs you need to consider what equipment you have (can you keep things hot/cold enough) and what flavor/type of beer you are making.

#5 Sensory profile

Most people wouldn’t be surprised to hear that there are more than 1,000 different flavor elements that have been found in different types of beer. However, what might surprise many is that the majority of these flavors don’t come from the grains or hops but, in fact, are derived from the yeast during fermentation. This is one area where, despite advances, equipment and technology cannot currently beat the human palate. This means understanding a yeast’s sensory profile requires you to understand how the effects of temperature, oxygen levels, and other outside elements affect the yeast you use and the subsequent flavor of your beer. This is, therefore, one of the most exciting aspects of the brewing process as the more you learn in this area the better control you will gain over the flavors and aromas of your homebrew.

Top 5 Best Yeast for Brewing Beer 2019

#1 Best Yeast for high flocculation: Danstar Lallemand Nottingham Ale Yeast – 5 Packets

For those who hate the sight of cloudy beer and love the taste of a good bitter ale, this high flocculating yeast that also attenuates at a high level will be right up your street. This combination ensures you don’t end up with yeast left in the beer at the end of fermentation and ensures you can have a decent strength beer without overtones of sugar sometimes associated with homebrewed beer that has used a low flocculation beer.

The other things that make this a great choice of yeast for brewing ale are that: it is versatile and suitable for use in a range of brewing styles (including classic ales and crisp lagers); it has a temperature range that doesn’t require much special equipment (between 57-70 degrees Fahrenheit), and; it is a great price. The downside of this yeast is that it doesn’t have much of a sensory profile so you will be relying on your hops and malts for all your flavors.

#Yeast #Flocculation #High_Flocculating_Yeast #Homebrew #Brewing

#2 Best Yeast for Brewing American Ales: Ferments’ Safale S-04

If your beer of choice is nice and clear American style ale, you want a high-quality yeast, and you don’t mind paying a bit extra, then this yeast could be just what you need. With medium flocculation and attenuation levels, this yeast creates well-rounded flavors and works great with hops like Mosaic and Simcoe if you want to use it for a fruity IPA. This versatile yeast is actually a British strain so also makes a nice malty ale if that is more your ‘cup of tea’ so to speak.

Other pros of this brewing yeast are that: it ferments quickly and has an alcohol tolerance of 4.5-6.5 ABV; it is a good choice for high gravity brews; it is a great choice of yeast if you are planning to cask-condition your ale, and; it has a decent sensory profile bringing fruity undertones to your beer’s taste and aroma. The downside of this yeast is that it is so expensive and you get less for your money with liquid yeast than if you went for dry yeast.

#Liquid_Yeast #Yeast #Homebrewing #Craft_Beer #IPA

#3 Best Fast Fermenting Yeast: Danstar’s Windsor Beer Yeast for Premium British Beers

If you love a Brown British ale and are impatient during the fermentation process, then you will love this vigorously fermenting yeast. The sensory profile of this yeast combines well with the malt and barley grains you are going to need to make a batch of your favorite English Brown ale. The high attenuation also ensures you get a really nice bitter finish every time along with mild elements of toffee and caramel that distinguish a brown ale.

Other things to like about this yeast are that: it is a great price for such fast fermenting yeast; it is gluten-free; it is non-GMO; it has a moderate alcohol tolerance that makes it a good choice for low strength ales; it is versatile enough to be used in a weak strength porter, and; it doesn’t require any special equipment to keep it at an appropriate temperature. The downside of this yeast is that it doesn’t flocculate particularly well.

#Yeast #Brewing_Yeast #Brown_Ale_Yeast #Craft_Beer #Gluten_Free_Brewing

#4 Best Dry Yeast: Fermentis’ Safale US-05 Dry Yeast

If your budget isn’t huge but you still want to make some big batches of beer, then you may want to go down the dry yeast route and this multi-pack is a good option. The downside of dry yeast is that they have less varied cultures within them than liquid variants. However, if you are planning on making a porter or even an American pale ale, then dry yeast is an affordable alternative to liquid yeast.

Other positives about this particular batch of dried yeast are that: it can be stored for up to a year in the fridge and still remain viable; it has a manageable temperature range of 59-75 degrees Fahrenheit; it can be used to make higher ABV ales, perhaps due to its Belgian origins, and; it is tremendous value. The downside of this yeast is that it is not as versatile as the others on this list and it doesn’t have much of a sensory profile so you will rely more on hops and grains for your flavor.

#Dry_Yeast #Dry_Yeast_Brewing #Homebrewing__Beer #Beer #Craft_Beer

#5 Best Book about Yeast for Brewing Beer: Chris White’s Yeast: The Practical Guide to Beer Fermentation (Brewing Elements)

If your taste buds have been tickled by the potential you have learned about in this article but you want to know more about how to get the most out of your yeast choice, then you should definitely check out this book. Focused solely on the importance of yeast to the brewing of beer, this book goes into more detail than we have been able to here and is written in an accessible and informative style.

Other pluses about this book are that: it includes useful step-by-step guides to take you through everything yeast-related, from how to choose it to rinsing and washing it; it is written by a true urban legend in the brewing world, and; it is suitable for beginners and long-term enthusiasts alike. If you have found yourself unable to have the influence you desire over your beer brewing, then this is the book that turns you into a master of the brewing art form.

Yeast_Brewing_Book #Beer_Brewing_Book #Homebrew_Book #Beer_Books #Ale

Conclusion

As simple a choice as picking yeast can seem, it is actually one of the most vital in the whole brewing process. This means it is not something that should be taken for granted if you are getting into homebrewing beer or want to take your craft to the next level. We have only been able to scratch the surface of what makes yeast so important when brewing beer but hopefully, we have given you enough information to pick the right yeast for your setup and tastes.

See more: https://www.cheaterscabaret.com/best-beer-homebrewing-kit/

Best Airlock for Beer Making(Review 2019) – What are the 2 different types Between Three-Piece and S-Shaped of airlocks?

While not the most exciting piece of equipment, the airlock is an essential part of your beer making kit and is fitted to the top of your fermenter during the fermentation process. It allows carbon dioxide, that is released during fermentation, to come out of the fermenter and it can do this without letting any air in which would cause oxidation and damage your beer.

In this article, we take a look at the important role of the airlock in the brewing process and what to expect from your airlock. We also explain the different types of airlocks available as well as going through our pick of the best airlocks currently on the market.

Do I need an airlock for brewing beer?

The answer to this question is 100% yes! In order to achieve successful fermentation of your beer, an airlock is an essential piece of kit. Also known as a fermentation lock, an airlock essentially allows your beer to release the gases it produces during fermentation while not allowing any air to enter the fermentation chamber thus preventing any unwanted bacteria getting in. An airlock is necessary for brewing beer as it helps to relieve internal pressure inside and also prevents bacteria  from entering your wort and therefore plays a key role in ensuring your beer does not get ruined.

How does an airlock work?

So, now you know the purpose of the airlock it would be useful to know how it actually works. In order to understand how the airlock works, it is helpful to think about it as a one-way valve in that it releases gases but does not allow anything else to enter. It can do this because of the balance of pressure. As the fermenter is sealed there will always be more pressure on the inside than on the outside, in that, as the sugars ferment, they release a gas which is less dense than the sugar and therefore causes the internal pressure to increase. This forces a bubble in the airlock as the gases are released, therefore releasing the pressure in the fermenter. When the airlock stops bubbling this means that the pressure has equalized.

The reason airlocks do not allow gases into the fermenter is because the pressure outside is never greater than the pressure in the fermenter so the bubbles do not flow backwards – they only flow one way. Therefore, nothing unwanted is able to pass through the airlock back into the fermenter. Clever stuff!

What are the different types of airlocks?

#1 Three-Piece Airlock

A three-piece airlock is the preference of many homebrewers, especially those that are just starting out. As the name suggests this airlock can be separated into three pieces so that it can be cleaned easily which is a welcome relief if it gets clogged up during the fermentation process. Thanks ot being easier to clean, three-piece airlocks also tend to last that much longer saving you on constantly shelling out on a new one when the old one gets clogged up!

You can use a three-piece airlock for both primary and secondary fermentation. It needs to be filled with water to create a barrier between you and the fermenting beer. Some brewers who know their stuff prefer a three-piece airlock as they can hold a lot of water and need refilling less frequently, as your beer ferments it can ‘spit’ out the water so this is a favorable feature of an airlock. Especially when it comes to secondary fermentation the water retention in the airlock means that you can leave your beer to ferment for a while without having to check up on it.

#2 S-Shaped Airlock

An s-shaped airlock comes in just one piece and is formed out of two straight tubes connected to a drain trap (and is vaguely reminiscent of an s shape!). Some brewers prefer s-shaped airlocks because they allow you to see the fermentation process in action and, as they come in one piece, it is not as easy to lose vital pieces of equipment!

Thanks to the smaller chamber in an s-shaped airlock it is easier to observe the carbon dioxide rising and monitor the rate of the fermentation occurring. While an s-shaped airlock can be used for primary fermentation, it is generally recommended that they are reserved for use with a less vigorous secondary fermentation. They are infamously difficult to clean and, as they can’t be taken apart, often end up unusable if they get clogged up during the fermentation process.

Should my airlock be bubbling?

For many first time brewers anticipating the appearance of bubbles in the airlock is a stressful time as this is an indicator that fermentation is working inside the carboy. This will normally occur around a day or two after you start the fermentation process. If you don’t see bubbles at this point, there may be a few reasons why that you should know how to look out for.

It might be that your fermenter is not fully sealed, so check the lid is on properly and also check that there aren’t any cracks in the fermenter you are using. The lack of bubbles in the airlock after a couple of days may also be attributed to the temperature of the wort. If the wort is cold then it takes longer for the airlock to bubble as it absorbs more carbon dioxide so less gas is initially vented.

Other indications that fermentation is working

While seeing bubbles in the airlock is a reassuring indicator that fermentation is working it is not the only way to tell this. If your beer is in a transparent container you can look to see if there is any foam around the fermenter – this is a key indicator that fermentation has occurred. You can also peek through the airlock to check for this if you are using a plastic container to ferment your beer in.

Top 5 Best Airlocks for Homebrewing 2019

As you can see, an airlock is an essential item if you plan on brewing your own beer. There are plenty of airlocks out there to suit all budgets. In this next section, we take a look at some of our favorites.

#1 Best Three Piece Airlock for Brewing Beer: Home Brewing Supplies 48-9AJX-W965 Econolock 6pk Airlock, Clear

This pack of airlocks from Home Brewing Supplies offers great value for money as for under $10 you will receive 6 airlocks. These are three-piece airlocks that are made out of quality BPA free plastic and are the perfect choice if you’re looking for an airlock for your fermenter. These easy to use airlocks can simply be placed in the top of your fermenter of choice, then all you need to do is await those bubbles.

The way this airlock works is through the pressure exerted by the fermenting beer which causes the airlock to move up and down and, through this process, permits the unwanted gasses to be released from the fermentation chamber. The three-piece construction of these airlocks makes them easy to deconstruct and clean after use. With this pack of airlocks, you will be keeping your fermenter sealed for a long time to come.

#Airlock #Three-piece #Fermentation #Fermenter #CO2 #Gases #Beer

#2 Best 3-Piece Air Locks for Fermentation: Jansamn 3 Piece Airlock with Silicone Grommet (2 Piece)

For some trustworthy airlocks that you can rely on look no further than this pack of two three-piece airlocks made by Jansamn. Coming with a one year guarantee you can be assured of their quality as they will replace the product if you have any problems with it within that time. Made out of BPA free plastic these airlocks come in three pieces which makes them incredibly easy to clean even if they get very clogged up during the fermentation process.

Thanks to the silicone grommet, once placed inside the top of your fermenter these airlocks will ensure that a full seal is created to enable fermentation to work effectively. The design enables carbon dioxide to be released whilst not allowing any bacteria to enter the fermenter keeping your beer safe from infection. Order yours today and get started with this key part of the brewing process.

#Jansamn #Fermenter #Airlock #Sealed #Beer_making #Silicone #Homebrewing

#3 Best S-Shaped Airlock For Beer Making: Vintage Shop Twin Bubble Airlock for Beer Making (Pack of 3)

If you’ve been searching for an s-shaped airlock to use for secondary fermentation then check out this great value pack of 3 airlocks from Vintage Shop. Having three in a pack really extends the possibility for fermentation – you can use these for brewing beer but also for making wine and even fermenting vegetables! Let your hobbies run wild with this great value set of airlocks.

For the price, these airlocks have great durability and are designed to ensure that fermentation is as smooth as possible and that your beer ends up tasting delicious. These airlocks will fit in easily into most fermenters and will ensure that the only substance passing through is the carbon dioxide escaping. Your fermenting beer will be protected from any unwanted bacteria entering the fermenter thanks to these quality airlocks.

#Vintage_shop #S-shaped #Airlocks #Bubble #Beermaking #Craft_beer #Makeyourown

#4 Best S-Shaped Airlock for Carboy: Home Brew Ohio Twin Bubble Airlock and Carboy Bung (Pack of 2)

The simple yet effective design of this airlock is sure to impress you as you progress in your beer making journey. The bung at the end of the airlock ensures that it can be placed securely in the carboy (or whatever fermenter you are using) making sure that the beer is completely secure and able to successfully ferment.

Coming in a pack of two, these plastic twin bubble airlocks are great value for money and for $5.00 you can look forward to watching your beer as it successfully ferments (check out those bubbles!). Keep oxygen out and allow carbon dioxide to be released with these quality airlocks and give your beer the best start in life. For a bargain price, you can ensure that your beer is able to ferment in the way it is supposed to thanks to these airlocks.

#HomeBrewOhio #Airlock #Twin_bubble #Fermentation #Beermaking #Plastic #Bubbles

#5 Best Three Piece Airlock for Craft Beer: Craft Brew’s 3-piece cylinder airlock

If you are someone who wants to brew multiple small batches regularly, then it’s worth getting the value in a multi-pack of quality airlocks. This three-pack of air-locks is suitable for use on 6-gallon carboys that have an opening of up to 1.6” and 1 or 2 gallon growlers. The special design ensures your fermentation process allows sanitary out-gassing as well as making them nice and easy to clean themselves.

Other things to like about these airlocks are that: they are a great price and cheaper than some individual airlocks; they ensure unwanted oxygen stays out of your beer as the C02 gets passed out; you can enjoy seeing the fermentation in action as you notice your airlock bubbling away, and; they are also suitable for use in wine and mead production. The downside of these airlocks is that they aren’t suitable for wider necked carboys or fermenters.

#Airlocks #Multi_Pack #Beer #Homerbrew #Fermenting

Conclusion

It can be tempting to overlook something as unexciting as an airlock when you start out brewing your own beer. However, the airlock is actually a vital piece of equipment in anyone’s brewery if they want to ensure their beer doesn’t get exposed to unwanted contaminants when releasing the massive amounts of carbon dioxide produced by the fermenting process. Nobody wants there hard work to turn into gone off beer!

So now you know about the importance of the airlock in the brewing process and the different types of airlocks out there on the market for different brewing needs all you need to do is get out there and choose your bit of kit. On this list, you’ll find some of the best air-locks we’ve had the pleasure to work with that will make sure you always produce the freshest taking homebrew in town.

>>Read more: Best Beer Making Kit Reviews 2019

Best Mash Tuns for Homebrewing(Review 2019) – 7 Guide to make you cry when buying a mash tun

When you first start with homebrewing you will likely be using extracts when you brew up your beer, which is a great way of getting to know the brewing process. As you progress in your brewing adventures you might be interested in having a go at making beer without the extracts and wish to try your hand at all-grain brewing.

You might want to see this first: Best Kegging System.

All-grain brewing is the process of making your wort out of malted grains and water rather than extract. It requires a few different processes and some new equipment, one of which is the mash tun. In this article, we will discuss what exactly is mashing and why you need a mash tun to do this, We will then go on to look at what you need to consider before buying a mash tun and review some excellent mash tuns on the market to suit all budgets.

What is Mashing?

Before we go any further let’s take a look at the process of mashing in brewing beer. This step is not necessary when brewing with extracts but is an essential part of all-grain brewing. Mashing is a process which hydrates the grain, it is conducted by combining hot water and crushed malts inside a mash tun in order to convert the starches in the grain into sugar which is much better for the fermentation process.

What is a Mash Tun?

For the mashing process to be successful, the ingredients need the right environment and this is where the mash tun comes in. A mash tun is usually insulated as during the process in which the starches in the grains are converted into sugar a constant temperature needs to be maintained. Essentially, therefore, a mash tun is simply a vessel in which to place all of the necessary ingredients for mashing inside.

Some brewers opt for making their own mash tun from a recycled beverage cooler, adding a false bottom so that the lautering process can take place. However, if you would rather get cracking without having to make your own then check out our buying guide on everything you need to know about buying a mash tun.

Mash Tun Buying Guide

It might look like a simple vessel but there is a lot more to a mash tun than meets the eye. When attempting all-grain brewing mashing is an essential process which can be the making or the breaking of your beer. For this reason, selecting a mash tun that has all of the features necessary to ensure a successful mash is important to the success of your beer. In this next section, we will look at what key features your mash tun needs to have.

#1 Insulation

As stated above, a mash tun needs to be insulated so that the ingredients inside are kept at a constant temperature. Check how long the mash tun is able to maintain the temperature for – the mashing process usually takes about an hour so make sure it can retain a constant temperature for this long.

#2 Size

There is nothing more frustrating than ordering a product online and then when it arrives finding it is half the size you thought it was. Avoid this by checking out how many gallons of mash can fit inside the mash tun to make sure that it is suitable for the amount of beer you plan on brewing. Most mash tuns can accommodate between a 5 and 10 gallon batch of beer.

#3 Quality

You want a mash tun that is made well and won’t leak to ensure that the process is as calamity free as possible. Check the thickness of the walls and also what the mash tun is made out of in order to assess its quality. Investing in a quality mash tun is beneficial in the long run as, if it is durable, you will be using it for a long time to come.

#4 False Bottom

A false bottom is an essential feature of any mash tun. When the mash is ready the grains need to be separated from the wort and this is easily done in a mash tun with a false bottom as the strainer collects the grains and allows only the wort to filter through. Make sure there is a false bottom on the mash tun and make your life a whole lot easier.

#5 Spigot

In addition to a false bottom, you will also need a spigot on your mash tun so that you can easily release and runoff the sweet wort into your next vessel. With vast quantities of liquid, a spigot makes the process a lot more straightforward and ensures that very little of the wort is wasted during the transference process.

#6 Thermometer

Having a thermometer installed in the mash tun is another handy item to help ensure the success of the mashing process. With a thermometer in place, you can monitor the temperature of the mash inside and make sure that a constant temperature is maintained throughout.

#7 Volume Markings

Check to see if the mash tun has volume markings engraved in the inside of the vessel. This will help you to measure out the correct quantity of liquid easily and ensure you have the correct ration of water to grain before the mashing begins.

Top 5 Best Mash Tuns 2019

As you can see, a mash tun is specifically designed to ensure that the mashing process is both a smooth and successful undertaking. It creates the perfect environment for mashing to take place and also makes it easy to runoff the wort when the process is complete. Take a look at the best mash tuns of 2019 and see which is best suited to your needs.

#1 Best Mash Tun for Beginners: Igloo’s Learn To Brew Mash Tun Igloo Ton with Stainless Steel False Bottom and Valve, 10 gallon

A firm favorite amongst home brewers is this excellent Mash Tun by Igloo. While it may look pretty basic this product really delivers on what you need it to do. It has a 10 gallon capacity so can be used for any amount up to that so is a good choice if you’re starting off with 5 gallon batches but may want to increase this in the future. The metal parts of this cooler are all made out of high-quality stainless steel and it has a thick plastic outer layer.

This mash tun from Igloo will keep your mash at the same temperature for at least an hour, so long enough for the starch to sugar transformation to occur. It also comes complete with a false bottom and a spigot so extracting the wort is a breeze as the grains are strained and the sweet wort efficiently released through the spigot. This is a great choice of mash tun whether you are a beginner to all-grain brewing or you’re an expert brewer in the market for a new mash tun.

#Igloo #Mash_tun #Mash #Wort #False_bottom #Siphon

#2 Best Mash Tun for Brewing Enthusiasts: Northern Brewer – Insulated Cooler All Grain Brewing Kits (Starter Kit w/12 Gallon Mash Tun)

This mash tun from Northern Brewer comes as part of a set which includes everything you need for the mashing process. While the price tag may look a little hefty, for your money you will be purchasing one of the best mash tuns available on the market today. Northern Brewer have redesigned the mash tun to give it all the features they think are necessary to ensure the perfect mash, and these guys really know what they’re doing.

This huge mash tun has a 12 gallon capacity and comes with extra thick insulated walls to ensure the temperature is maintained throughout the process. There is also an inbuilt thermometer so you can monitor the temperature and, with this mash tun, you can easily add water to it if you need to adjust the temperature. The Titan False Bottom is also an excellent feature of this mash tun which ensures all of the grain is kept separate from the wort as it is extracted. When purchasing this mash tun you will be confident that you are getting a high-quality product that is built to last.

#Northern_Brewer #Mash_tun #Thermometer #Stainless_steel #Quality #Brewing

#3 Best Mash Tun with All Grain Brewing System: Brewer’s Edge Mash and Boil with Pump, 7.5 Gallon

This state of the art piece of equipment from Brewer’s Edge is not only a mash tun, it is an all-in-one brewing system for all-grain beer making. What this means is that you can conduct the mashing process (creating your wort) and boiling process (boiling your wort) in the same place! Made out of high-grade stainless steel the Mash & Boil has a double-wall construction which conserves heat excellently which is necessary for both of these brewing processes.

Inside this vessel is a sparging basket so you can easily remove the grain from the boiler leaving the wort inside which is sat there ready for the boiling process to begin. With an inbuilt digital thermometer, you can monitor the temperature and adjust it as you move to the next process. There is also a timer so you can enact precision brewing with very little effort. Investing in this piece of brewing equipment will save you a lot of time and effort and help you create great tasting beer.

#Brewer’s_Edge #Mash_and_Boil #All_grain_brewing #Mashing #Boiling #Electric

#4 Best Mash Tun on a Budget: Concord Polished Stainless Steel Stock Pot Brewing Beer Kettle Mash Tun w/ Flat Lid (30 QT)

If you like the idea of a multi-purpose piece of equipment that doesn’t cost the earth then check out this mash tun from Concord. This simple stock pot is made out of commercial quality stainless steel and is one of those items where simplicity is its greatest virtue. With this piece of equipment in your brewing repertoire, you can strip brewing back to basics and take your beer through mashing and boiling using this quality stock pot.

This heavy-duty stock pot is built to last a lifetime so really is great value. While, due to the simple construction, there is no false bottom you can easily create one yourself or opt for an alternative method to separate the wort from the grain. Whether you want to avoid the bells and whistles of modern brewing equipment, or perhaps you are on a tight budget, opting for this simple brew kettle/mash tun is an option for those of you who aren’t afraid of a challenge!

#Concord #Brew_kettle #Mash_tun #False_bottom #Grains #All_grain #Wort

#5 Best Stainless Steel Mash Tun: Chapman 10 Gallon ThermoBarrel Stainless Steel Mash Tun

Mash tuns made out of stainless steel are capable of retaining the temperature inside very effectively and this mash tun from Chapman is no exception. This fully insulated stainless steel mash tun will keep a constant temperature for your mash to undergo the important chemical changes and you can also keep an eye on the temperature thanks to the thermometer. The sturdy construction also means that your mash is secure inside this vessel with no leakage likely to occur.

This mash tun also has a domed false bottom so all of the grain will be filtered out as you extract your wort through the ball valve that comes included in this set. With a capacity of 10 gallons, this mash tun is a great choice if you plan on brewing up a large batch of beer and is a good option if you are looking for a mash tun that isn’t made out of plastic.

#Chapman #Stainless_steel #Ten_gallon #Wort #Brewing #False_bottom #Craft_beer

Conclusion

Delving into the world of all-grain brewing may seem like a daunting undertaking but, with the right equipment, you can set yourself up for success in this new venture. Investing in a decent mash tun is an important step in moving to an all-grain setup and opting for a mash tun that includes features that make this process easier is certainly a wise move (especially for beginners!). There are plenty of options to choose from to suit a variety of budgets and skill levels so there is nothing stopping you getting the perfect mash tun for your homebrew set up.

See more maybe you are interested here.

Best Homebrew Recipe Kits(Review 2019) – Only 8 steps in using a beer recipe kit you will have a special beer!

Beer recipes can seem a little complicated on first appearance, especially when attempting to gather all of the ingredients yourself and balancing which ingredients goes in when. Which is why, when first starting out in homebrewing, it is a good idea to use a beer recipe kit. Beer recipe kits are put together by expert brewers who know exactly what flavors go together and they come with full instructions to walk you through the process. The processes of homebrewing take a bit of getting used to so ensuring you have a straightforward recipe kit when first starting out is essential to ensure your first beer isn’t a disaster!

You might want to see this first: Beer Making Kit Near Me.

In this article, we will take a look at what ingredients you should expect to find in your recipe kit as well as taking you through a step by step guide of how to use the kits. We then take a look at some of our favorite recipe kits and explain why we love them so much.

What ingredients are in a beer recipe kit?

When you first receive your beer recipe kit you might be a little confused as to what each ingredient is and what their purpose is. In this next section, we will talk you through each ingredient and what role it plays in creating the perfect pint.

#1 Malt Extract

Using malt extract to make beer makes it a whole lot simpler as the process of ‘mashing’ is not needed (which is where malted grains are soaked in water as part of all-grain brewing). With malt extract, this process has essentially been done for you – the liquid from mashing has been collected, dehydrated and turned into either a thick syrup or a dry powder.

The malt extract will be used to create your sweet wort. The sugars within the wort are essential for the fermentation stage of the process which is where the all-important alcohol will be produced.

#2 Hops

Hops are necessary for brewing to add some bitterness so that beer isn’t too sweet. Hops are actually flowers that are found on the hop plant. The type and amount of hops used can really alter the flavor of the beer. Some beer drinkers love a ‘hoppy’ beer and will opt for a beer that has a flavorsome hop content, others prefer a beer where the hop flavor is largely absent. Make sure you select a beer recipe kit that has the correct level of ‘hoppiness’ for your taste buds!

#3 Yeast

Some would say that the yeast is the most important ingredient in your recipe kit as this is what turns the sugars in the wort into alcohol. The world of brewers yeast may seem a little overwhelming at first as there are so many different types. Fortunately, in a beer recipe kit, the most suitable yeast will have been selected to complement the flavor of the beer.

The yeast you receive will either come in a dry form or liquid form. There are essentially two different types of yeast used in brewing – ale yeasts and larger yeasts. Ale yeasts are used to create darker, thicker and stronger beers and larger yeasts are used for more golden and lighter beers.

#4 Water

Water is, of course, an essential ingredient in brewing beer. Some brewers just use tap water to make their beer with but if you really want to ensure the quality of the flavor it might be worth investing in a water filter.

How to make beer using a beer recipe kit

So you’ve got your ingredients now it’s time to use them! The recipe kit should come with a step by step guide but here are some tips to get you started.

#Step One: Sanitize your equipment

Some beer recipe kits come with a sanitizer but if not you can easily buy some online or at your local store. Ensuring all of your equipment is sanitized first reduces the risk of your beer tasting bad.

#Step Two: Boil the water

Bring the required amount of water to the boil (depending on how much your recipe states) and then remove it from the heat source.

#Step Three: Add the Malt Extract

Now its time to add your first ingredient – the malt extract. Add this to the boiled water and allow it to dissolve. Make sure you give the mixture a good stir so that the malt extract doesn’t get stuck to the bottom.

#Step Four: The Boil

It is now time to conduct the step known as ‘The Boil’ in brewing. This is where the dissolved malt extract is boiled for around 50 minutes in order to create your wort. Make sure you keep an eye on it throughout this time, stirring it frequently and making sure it doesn’t boil over.

#Step Five: Add your Hops

Place the hops in the cloth filter bag provided and add this to your cooking malt. Allow your hops to stew in your brew for around 10-15 minutes.

#Step Six: Get your Yeast ready

When the wort has about 10 minutes left of its boiling time this is when you should get your yeast ready. If using dry yeast add the specified amount of warm water to it, cover, and leave for 10 minutes.

#Step Seven: The Cool Down

When the wort has finished boiling it needs to be cooled down immediately so around ten minutes before the end of the boil prepare an ice bath to put the brew kettle into (or better still, invest in a wort chiller to remove this step of the process).

#Step Eight: Add the Yeast

Once the wort has cooled down, this is when the yeast is added and the fermentation process begins to happen (you will also be adding some more water at this stage as well depending on what your recipe states).

Top 5 Best Beer Recipe Kits 2019

#1 Best Dark Ale Recipe Kit: Northern Brewer – Dark Ale Extract Beer Recipe Kit makes 5 Gallons (Nut Brown)

You can’t beat a comforting dark ale on a cold winters night and when it is made by your own hard graft it will taste even better. With this recipe kit from Northern Brewer, you can do just that as it includes all of the ingredients you need to create a traditional English brown ale. As its name suggests, the Nut Brown ale has a deep copper hue in appearance, and you can expect fruity, caramel, and chocolaty notes for the flavor. Delicious!

The premium ingredients within this recipe kit have been specially selected by expert brewers at Northern Brewer who really know what makes a great tasting beer. In your set, you will receive malt extract, steeping grains, hops, dry yeast, priming sugar, and a muslin steeping bag. A full set of instructions are also included which take you step-by-step through the process of making this premium ale. You will get 5 gallons of beer from this recipe kit so is certainly worth it for the price.

#Northern_Brewer #Dark_ale #Nut_Brown #English_ale #Recipe_kit #Homebrew

#2 Best Wheat Beer Recipe Kit: Midwest Supplies Hank’s Hefeweizen Extract Homebrewing Beer Recipe Kit – Makes 5 Gallons

A refreshing chilled wheat beer on a sunny afternoon can be yours on tap with this recipe kit from Midwest Supplies. Known as ‘Hank’s Hefeweizen’, this beer recipe kit includes all of the essential ingredients needed to make a delicious wheat beer including malt extract, specialty grains, hops, yeast, priming sugar, and a grain bag. The ingredients provided will make a whopping 5 gallons of beer providing you with plenty of Hefeweizen to entertain your friends at a mid-summer BBQ.

This non-bitter beer has a slightly sweet flavor with hints of fruits to please the palate. If you’re not a fan of beers with a strong flavor of hops then this is the beer for you as it is entirely absent of a hop flavor. With full instructions included in the kit, you will soon be well on your way to creating the perfect wheat beer. Served with a slice of lemon, this beer really is perfection in a glass.

#Hefeweizen #Wheat_beer #Midwest_suppiles #Recipe_kit #Homebrew #Makeyourown #Beer

# Best IPA Recipe Kit: Brewer’s Best Double IPA Beer Ingredient Kit

For many, an IPA is the king of beers and is a firm favorite amongst beer lovers. Making your own IPA isn’t as hard as you might think, especially thanks to the help of this well put together recipe kit from Brewer’s Best. In this set you will receive fermentables (liquid malt extract and corn sugar), specialty grains, hops and yeast as well as bottle caps, priming sugar, and a full break down of the brewing procedure you need to do to make the IPA.

Thanks to this excellent value for money set you will be the proud creator of a delicious IPA which has the aromas of citrus and a slight pine finish – delicious! There will be plenty to go round too as this ingredient kit makes 5 gallons of tasty IPA for you and your friends to enjoy. Get your kit today and we’re sure that you will be purchasing another of Brewer’s Best recipe kits in the near future they’re that good!

#Brewer’s_Best #Double_IPA #IPA #Makeyourown #Craft_beer #Homebrewing #Beer_making

#4 Best Stout Recipe Kit: Craft a Brew Ingredient 1 Gallon Chocolate Milk Stout Recipe Kit

If dark beer is your thing and a wholesome stout is what really tickles your taste buds then take a look at this Chocolate Milk Stout Recipe Kit from Craft a Brew. This kit is a great choice if you’re just starting out in home brewing and are looking to make a small batch of beer as this small kit will make 1 gallon of beer. In this set, you will receive sanitizer, dry malt extract, hops, grains, yeast, and a grain steeping bag.

With this kit, you will have all the ingredients you need to make a delicious stout which is infused with the flavor of raw cacao nibs and has a super smooth finish. This easy drinker is sure to have your pals knocking on your door and, for the price, you will be happy to share your handmade creation. These recipe kits from Craft A Brew are a great choice if you have already used their home brewing starter kits as this is a refill recipe kit to go with this.

#CraftABrew #Refill #Homebrewing #Stout #Milk_stout #Dark_ale #Small_batch

#5 Best Pale Ale Recipe Kit: Mr. Beer Northwest Pale Ale 2 Gallon Homebrewing, Refill, Green

Mr. Beer has a range of great value recipe kits to suit all beer tastes. This kit comes with all of the ingredients you need to create a delicious Northwest Pale Ale – a beer which has a glorious hoppy aroma and a malty finish. As this recipe kit is put together by experienced brewers you can be confident that the beer you are making has been well thought out and tested by only the best.

Another great thing about this recipe kit is that it is so quick to put together – within 30 minutes you can have your beer brewed up and ready to ferment. It will then take 3-4 weeks for your beer to be ready and you can then taste the delicious fruits of your labor. If you like this beer recipe kit there are plenty of other beer recipe kits to try from Mr. Beer so you can continue to enjoy these expertly crafted recipe kits.

#Mr.Beer #Northwest_Pale #Pale_ale #Small_batch #Recipe #Beer #Homebrewing

Conclusion

When starting out in homebrewing using a beer recipe kit is a great way of making sure that you get your new hobby off to a good start. There are many recipe kits out there that include a variety of ingredients to create a huge spectrum of different beers to suit all tastes. Many home brewers stick with prepared beer recipe kits throughout their brewing career and there is certainly nothing wrong with this! Expertly crafted by professional brewers, beer recipe kits include everything you need to ensure your beer tastes delicious.

Read more: https://www.cheaterscabaret.com/best-beer-homebrewing-kit/

Best Wort Chiller(Review 2019) – 2 benefits will make you irresistible!

With over a million Americans now brewing their own beer, now is as good a time as any to join the party and brew your own beer too. However, when you’re starting out there are so many new words, bits of equipment, and processes to get your head around that it can be easy to be put off from taking part. We’re here to try and help prevent that happening and to give you the confidence to get past the first hurdle and start brewing your own beer.

You might want to see this first: Best Bottle Filling Equipment.

In this post, we will take you through what wort is (essentially the key ingredient to make your homebrew), what a wort chiller is, the benefits of using a wort chiller, how to use a wort chiller, and how to pick the best wort chiller for your needs. Understanding how to get the most out of your wort is the key to making good beer so don’t be put off by the unexciting sound of the name!

What is wort?

Before we start fermenting our beer we have to do a whole range of things, with the most important of these probably being the making of the wort. Wort is the liquid that you extract from the grains you use to make your beer and gives your beer its main essence and essential flavors (from grains and hops as your recipe indicates). At its heart wort is the thing that gives your beer life, body, and soul.

Wort is made by creating a malty liquid by converting starch stored in grains into sugar by a process called mashing. Mashing involves cracking or grinding the husks of grains (usually sprouted barley) and then mixing this with hot water. This is then steeped at around 165 degrees Fahrenheit which allows enzymes to convert the starch in your grains into sugar. This sugary liquid is your wort.

#1 Lautering your wort

Once you have made your wort you then need to do something called lautering. This entails separating your grains and their husks from the liquid component of your wort. Because the words wort, mashing, and lautering can be off-putting, some homebrewers actually jump over these stages altogether by buying ready-made liquid malt extract (what your wort will become). However, this approach gives you almost no control over your beer’s flavor!

The word lauter is derived from German and roughly translates as “to rinse off” or, perhaps, can also be translated as meaning “to purify”. This can be done in the same vessel that you have made your wort in so long as it has a false bottom, manifold, or braid. For a good lauter you need your grain husks to be coarsely crushed as the husks can act as a filtration system. Obviously, your grains should still be crushed enough to allow for efficient extraction.

#2 Sparging

If all that wasn’t enough, making your own wort then requires something called sparging, effectively the final lautering stage. Once the water is running clear off your grains during the lautering stage, you are ready to sparge. This involves sprinkling your grains with hot water and capturing the runoff sweet liquid that comes through – this is the wort that you are capturing here.

#3 The Boil

Now you have your wort prepared the next step is referred to as the boil. As the name suggests, this step requires boiling your wort in order to remove harmful oxygen and unwanted enzymes and lower the pH of the wort so that you can create the optimum environment for adding your hops.

#4 The Quick Cool Down

The next crucial step of the brewing process is to cool down the wort as quickly as possible. This is necessary in order to prevent your wort from getting infected with bacteria and possibly ruining your homebrew. This needs to be done in around 20 minutes and can be done either by creating your very own ice bath or you could go for the much easier option of investing in a wort chiller.

What is a Wort Chiller and how do you use one?

After several frustrating attempts at using an ice bath to cool down the wort, many brewers make the wise step of investing in a wort chiller. These clever devices can be immersed into your wort to cool it down quickly. They are made out of copper piping, heat-safe tubing and metal fasteners and work through the insertion of cold water into the copper piping. The heat from the wort then transfers into the copper piping and brings the temperature of the wort down significantly faster than an ice bath.

What are the benefits of a Wort Chiller?

There are many benefits to investing in a wort chiller. The first of which is that they significantly reduce the likelihood of your beer being infected with bacteria. When brewing batches of beer of 5 gallons or more it can take a long time to cool your wort down using an ice bath, and beer spending time in a lukewarm state is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and infection. With a wort chiller, you reduce this risk by a long way and get your beer to the perfect temperature for adding your yeast more quickly.

Another benefit of using a wort chiller to cool your wort quickly is that you minimize the risk of harboring proteins and tannins in your beer because these can make your beer cloudy. By cooling the wort quickly these compounds have the opportunity to be got rid of helping your beer to achieve a much clearer and attractive finish.

Top 5 Best Immersion Wort Chiller Products 2019

The majority of wort chillers on the market are immersion chillers that you place directly in the wort. They are relatively easy to use and don’t have a hefty price tag. In this next section, we review some of the best immersion wort chillers on the market to help you on your wort chilling way.

#1 Best Value Copper Wort Chiller: Coldbreak Brewing’s 12.5 foot Copper Tubing Wort Chiller for Homebrewing

This impressive but simple design makes cooling even larger batches of wort a breeze and thanks to wondrous conductivity of copper you will cool your wort down super quickly with this device. With 12.5-feet of cooling coil and a full 4.5 feet of this being copper this piece of kit has plenty of give and manages to keep the costs down whilst retaining the benefits of using copper to chill down your wort quickly.

Other pros about this copper wort chiller are that: it is suitable for use on up to 6-gallon batches of wort; it is easy to sanitize (use an acidic sanitizer to keep the copper shiny); it is a great price considering the quality and size it is able to cool down, and; it can cool down your wort to pitchable temperature in 10-20 minutes. One downside of this wort chiller is that it has slightly loose connections so you may want to attach hose barbs or compression fittings on the end of the chiller.

#Homebrew #Wort #Wort_Chiller #Copper #Copper_Wort_Chillers

#2 Best Immersion Wort Chiller: NY Brew Supply W3850-CV Super Efficient 3/8 x 50 Copper Wort Chiller

Made in the USA, this wort chiller by NY Brew Supply is of the highest quality and is made with twice the copper of standard wort chillers which ensures its expert efficiency when it comes to cooling down your wort. Constructed out of 50 feet of copper tubing, this wort chiller can be used for batches of wort between 5 and 15 gallons in size so you have lots of room for maneuver when you purchase this wort chiller.

Included with this product is a garden hose adapter, vinyl tubing (that can be cut to the size you need) and stainless steel clamps. NY Brew Supply also provide a full set of instructions so if you are new to the world of wort chillers you will have all of the information you need. The height of the wort chiller is 24 inches and the diameter 9 inches – so make sure this size fits in you brew kettle before purchasing! With this wort chiller, your wort will be cooled in minutes and will save you a whole lot of hassle.

#Wort_chiller #Immersion #Cool_down #Boil #Copper #Wort #Brew

#3 Best Copper Wort Chiller: Home Brew Stuff 25 inch Copper Immersion Wort Chiller

If you’re brewing 5 gallon batches of beer and are looking for a suitable wort chiller for this set up then take a look at this copper immersion wort chiller by Home Brew Stuff. Through immersing this super-effective wort chiller into your wort the temperature will be reduced in minutes and will reduce the risk of your beer being infected and will help to avoid cloudy beer.

In this set, you will also receive two 12 inch hoses, fittings, and faucet adapter so you have all you need in order to get that wort chilling. The height of this wort chiller is 17 inches and diameter 9.25 inches which will fit nicely into a 5 gallon brew kettle. The design of the wort chiller means that the copper coil is elevated inside your brew kettle which makes it more effective at cooling down your wort. Make ice baths a thing of the past by investing in this wort chiller and we’re sure you won’t regret it.

#Immersion_wort_chiller #Copper #Wort #Ice_bath #Homebrew #Beer_making

#4 Best Stainless Steel Wort Chiller: NY Brew Supply Stainless Steel Immersion Wort Chiller

If you would prefer to use a stainless steel wort chiller instead of copper then take a look at this immersion wort chiller from NY Brew Supply. Constructed out of 25 feet of stainless steel tubing the design of this wort chiller means it is elevated inside your brew kettle to make sure that your wort is cooled down as quickly as possible in order to prevent infection. This wort chiller is 16 inches tall and measures 9 inches in diameter and is perfect for chilling 5 gallon batches of wort.

As well as the stainless steel wort chiller you will also receive 12 feet of vinyl tubing which you can cut to the length you need, and the hose adapter which allows you to fit this to your garden hose if you wish to. Help to ensure your beer tastes as good as possible by investing in this wort chiller and also save yourself a lot of time and effort as you will no longer need to create ice baths to chill your wort. A worthy investment and addition to your brewing equipment repertoire.

#Stainless_steel #Wort_chiller #Wort #Cool_down #Heat_reduction #Homebrew

#5 Best High-End Copper Wort Chiller: Northern Brewer’s Copperhead Immersion Wort Chiller for Homebrew

If you are after a copper wort chiller and have a bit of extra cash to play with, then you should check out this great quality bit of kit. With a whopping 25-feet to play with this setup is suitable for cooling down large batches of wort rapidly. The included barbed fittings and hose clamps mean you can always be sure your connections are as tight and secure as they can be so you will not end up contaminating your beer with a leaky faucet with this kit!

Other benefits of this copper wort chiller are that: it also has special ‘drop-angle connections’ designed to ensure no leaks or other contaminants get into your wort as it cools; it comes with connectors suitable for indoors and out, and; it can cool 5 gallons of wort in under twenty minutes and usually closer to 15 minutes. Although they imply you don’t need to sanitize this kit before using it, we recommend sanitizing it anyway as this is best brewing practice!

#Copper_Wort_Chiller #Immersion_Chiller #Homebrew #Home_Brew #Wort_Chillers

Conclusion

Cooling down your wort is a vital step in the brewing process so ensuring this happens as quickly as possible is key to creating a successful homebrew. Creating an ice bath to cool down your wort is fine when brewing smaller batches of beer but as you move to make larger batches a wort chiller will be necessary to ensure that your wort is cooled quick enough to prevent infection. There are wort chillers to suit all budgets and requirements so check out the excellent products reviewed above and select the perfect wort chiller for you.

See more maybe you are interested here.

Best Bottle Filling Equipment(Review 2019) – 5 suggestions will make you satisfied

When you’ve finally reached the moment where your carefully brewed beer is ready to be bottled you want to make sure that you have the right equipment for the job. You want to be able to enjoy every drop of the precious liquid you’ve spent so long crafting and the right bottling equipment can make sure the transference from fermenter to bottle is pain-free (and without spillage!). There are a range of bottle fillers out there which can also be used for transferring your beer from one place to another (which is often the case in brewing).

You might want to see this first: Best Wort Chiller.

In this article, we will take a look at the key features you want to look out for when purchasing a bottle filler as well as how to use them. We will also take you through some excellent products so you can select the best one for you.

What is a bottle filler?

As you will no doubt have noticed the beer-making process requires the movement of beer from one vessel to another and then finally into bottles. Moving the beer without the correct equipment can get very messy and you risk the possibility of losing some of the beer you’ve so painstakingly crafted through spillage.

An easy way to make sure that transferring your beer is straightforward as well as efficient is through a bottle filler. The name suggests this piece of equipment is purely used for bottling up your finished product, however, it can also be used for whenever you are required to move your beer from one place to another. Be it moving the beer from your brew kettle to fermenter, or to a bottle or a keg a bottle filler is a tool that all brewers really can’t live without.

What are the different types of bottle fillers?

The next stage of the process is to decide what type of bottle filler is for you as there are a few different types available on the market. In this next section, we will go through the different types of bottle fillers and the pros and cons of each.

#1 Counter Pressure Bottle Fillers

This type of bottle filler is largely used in large-scale commercial brewing but there is nothing stopping it being used in a home brewing set up and there are simpler products on the market that are exactly for this purpose. This type of bottle filler will be necessary if you are storing your beer in kegs and want to transfer your brew to bottles. A counter pressure bottle filler will ensure that the carbonation of the beer is maintained as you transfer it from a pressurized container (your keg) into the beer bottle. Another benefit of this type of bottle filler is that it can help to regulate both foam and temperature as the beer is transferred.

Counter bottle fillers have two inputs – one that is for the gas and the other for the beer. The long tube part goes into the bottom of the bottle where the liquid fills and during this process, the bottler filler ensures that CO2 gas pressure is maintained. These type of bottle fillers are praised for their efficiency as well as their ability to minimize mess during the bottling process.

#2 Spring Tip Bottle Fillers

Spring bottle fillers are pretty simple devices yet are incredibly effective at ensuring the bottling process is as calamity free as possible. As their name suggests, these bottle fillers have a removable spring within the mechanism. This type of bottle opener is pretty cheap and also very easy to use. All you have to do is insert the device into your bottle and push the filler right down to the bottom of the bottle. Then, once the beer has reached the top of the bottle simply remove the filler and you will find that there is the ideal amount of head space left at the top. You will have your homebrew bottled up in no time at all with one of these handy pieces of kit by your side.

What about a Bottle Capping Machine?

If you’ve decided to bottle your beer you will, of course, require a means of securing the lids on your freshly bottled beer. A bottle capping machine is an essential piece of kit to add to your brewers’ repertoire if you plan on storing your beer in bottles. These simple devices can be bought for a reasonable price and, depending on the model you go for, should last you for a long time to come. At this stage of the game, when you’ve got to the happy point of producing a great tasting beer it is certainly worth investing in the equipment that will help you store your precious liquid well, a bottle capper is one such item that you really can’t do without.

What are the different types of Bottle Capping Machines?

Bottler cappers generally come in two varieties: bench cappers and hand cappers. Most homebrewers will most likely prefer a hand capper as they are ideal for capping small batches of beer – they’re great value, easy to use and don’t take up much space. They attach a crown cap to the bottle and work by squeezing the two lever handles together.

The other type of bottle capper is the bench capper. If your homebrewing adventures are progressing fast and you’re turning out large batches of beer regularly it might be worth investing in a bench capper. This type of capper requires a dedicated space to be set up as it needs to be mounted on a work surface. They can usually be adjusted to whatever height beer bottle you have and, once set up, you will find yourself capping your beers at incredible speed. A good option for larger-scale home brewing operations.

Top 5 Best Beer Bottle Filling Equipment 2019

So, you’ve decided you want to invest in a bottle filler and a bottle capper so that you can have a super smooth bottling operation as part of your home brewing set up and now its time to decide on some actual products. In this section, we will review some of our favorite bottling equipment that will assist you on your brewing journey.

#1 Best Bottle Filler for Bottling Beer: Northern Brewer – The Last Straw Stainless Steel Bottle Filler (Ball Lock)

If you want an exciting bit of brewing kit then take a look at this bottle filler by Northern Brewer. Not only will it make bottling your beer so much easier, it is also super fun to use. With this bottle filler, you force carbonate it as you fill it, meaning when you transfer it from keg to bottle it will remain perfectly carbonated and will be ready to drink straight away! You can dial in the psi you require and enjoy carbonated beer as soon as it is bottled.

Northern Brewers are experts at simplifying the brewing process by producing machinery that is both intuitive and easy to use. This bottle filler is no different and can be used with just one hand thanks to the expertly crafted ergonomic design. The Last Straw bottle filler is easy to disassemble which makes it a breeze to clean and maintain to a high level of sanitation. It comes in two different types – either fitting ball-lock or pin-lock kegs so make sure you select the right option for your kegging system.

#NorthernBrewer #Bottle_filler #Carbonated #Sediment-free #Bottling #Beer

#2 Best Counter Pressure Bottle Filler: OneBom Beer Bottle Filler (Counter Pressure)

OneBom have designed this bottle filler to replicate that of a filler on a bottling line used by large-scale professional breweries. So with this product, you can use the same method that has been tried and tested by the best brewers – that of using a counter pressure bottle filler to transfer your beer from keg to bottles. It can be used for both transferring your beer from fermenter to keg and from keg to bottles with different settings (the first without carbonation).

You will be impressed with the quality of this counter pressure bottle filler as it is made out of 304 stainless steel and has a very sturdy construction. It is also easy to use and comes with instructions on how to get started if you’ve never used this type of bottle filler before. OneBom also offers a 100% money-back guarantee if you’re not satisfied with the product within 90 days of receiving it, so it is certainly worth a try to see if this type of bottle filler is for you.

#OneBom #Counter_pressure #Bottle_filler #Carbonation #Beer #Equipment #Beer_kit

#3 Best Spring Loaded Bottle Filler: ProMaker Spring Loaded Beer Bottle Filler Home Brewing

For those of you that want a simpler and cheaper option for bottling up your beer then check out this spring loaded bottle filler from ProMaker. Made out of high-quality stainless steel this bottle filler is designed to last throughout your brewing career so you can enjoy a corrosion-resistant and highly durable product. The presence of the spring makes controlling the flow of the beer from your keg to the bottle easy, but you can also remove the spring if you prefer to bottle up without it.

To use this bottle filler simply attach the tube to your keg, place the tube inside your bottle and then push the valve against the bottom of the bottle to release the beer. Once the beer is near the top release the pressure on the valve and the beer will stop pouring in – easy! Once you’ve finished your bottling you can easily clean and sanitize this bottle filler as the spring is removable. For a straightforward and mess-free bottling experience, you need one of these excellent bottle fillers from ProMaker in your life!

#ProMaker #Spring_loaded #Homebrewing #Bottle_filler #Bottling #Beer #Easy

#4 Best Bench Bottle Capper: G Francis Professional Bench Beer Bottle Capper

Capping your beer bottles is an important part of the process as you want to make sure that the beer that you’ve spent so much time and effort creating is stored properly. With this professional bench bottle capper from G. Francis, you can do just that. This quality piece of equipment will make it easy to cap your beer and ensure that those caps are attached securely. It is adjustable so can be used to cap almost any shaped bottle (and can be used to bottle wine if you are making this also).

This stable bottle capper sits firmly on your work surface, and there is an additional option to screw it down if you want some extra stability. To use simply place your bottle on the non-slip base, attach the cap to the magnetic bell and then pull the lever towards you to secure the cap in place. This bench bottle capper is incredibly easy to use and is a great choice if you’ve got a big batch to bottle and cap as it is also super efficient.

#Bench_bottle_capper #Capper #Bottles #Beers #Bottle_capper_machine #Homebrew

#5 Best Hand Bottle Capper: Perrysbrewer Bottle Capper Set

A simple and effective way of bottling your beer is through a hand bottle capper. This product from Perrysbrewer will do just the job and even comes with 55 silver caps included for the price which is enough to cap a 5 gallon batch of beer so is great value for money. This bottle capper can cap any non-twist bottle so is a great choice whatever type of bottle you wish to use for your homebrew.

Made out of top-quality metal this bottle capper is easy to use – simply attach your cap to the capper, secure it to the top of your bottle and then squeeze the two levers together. The bottle capper will ensure the cap is placed securely in place so that your beer is sealed properly. Use this bottle capper for whatever your brewing be it beer, cider or mead. It is highly durable so you’re likely to be using this capper for a life-time.

#Perrysbrewer #Hand_bottle_capper #Bottle_capper #Sealed #Beer #Capper

Conclusion

Reaching the bottling stage of your homebrew is a real achievement and a testament to the hard work you have put in over the months to create the perfect beer. So, when it comes to this stage, you want to ensure that you have the right equipment to bottle it up. Investing in a bottle filler and bottle capper will make the process of bottling relatively mess-free, ensure you don’t waste lots of your beer through spillage and ensure that your beer is properly sealed and secure so that it will remain fresh and delicious.

See more maybe you are interested here.

Best Kegging System(Review 2019) – How to choose the kegging system for Homebrew?

When we think of a craft beer we usually imagine it being pulled out of a keg down at the bar. However, when we homebrew, more often than not, we opt for bottling our beer but bottled beer tastes different to kegged beer. Indeed, nothing can beat the smooth flow of a beer poured from a keg so why not add that into your home brewed repertoire?

You might want to see this first: Best Hydrometers for Homebrewing.

In this post, we will take you through the benefits of a kegging system, the essential equipment to homebrew beer that you will need, how to keg your own homebrew, and some of our favorite bits of kit to get you serving the best homebrew your nearest and dearest have ever tasted.

What are the benefits of a kegging system?

When it comes to brewing your own beer at home, one of the most time-consuming tasks is bottling up your carefully crafted beer for conditioning. If you take the kegging route, you’ll soon find you save hours on painstakingly sanitizing all your bottles. So although there is an initial outlay in cash, there is a long term time saving that is going to be a major plus if you plan to brew your own batches regularly.

As already mentioned, beer drawn from a keg tends to taste a whole lot crisper and fresher as there is no air in contact with the beer inside the keg, as there would be a tiny bit of in a bottle. In a keg, all of the oxygen is displaced by CO2 helping to ensure it keeps well and tastes all the better. You also won’t be left with the annoying bit of sediment in the bottom of all your bottles as this won’t make it out of your keg.

Another major benefit of kegging your beer is that you don’t need to add priming sugar to carbonate your beer since this is achieved with C02. So you could argue your kegged homebrew is actually a way to be healthier as a persuasive argument to free the funds up for your investment in a kegging system for the home. Kegged beer also carbonates quicker than bottled beer and is easier to adjust in terms of how much carbonation occurs to suit your tastes.

What equipment do you need for a home kegging system?

If you’ve decided to take the plunge on a home kegging system, then a great way to get started is a starter kit that comes with everything you need in one go. These can usually be bought for around $200. Then, if you want to add multiple kegs to your setup you can do this gradually over time if you want to expand your brewing capacity. Annoyingly, these sets typically send you an empty Co2 tank, so be prepared to have that filled if you do opt for an all-in-one kegging kit. But what’s in the kit?

#1 The Keg

Obviously, you can’t have a kegging system without a keg. There are also actually two types of keg, the Cornelius keg and the pin lock keg. A Cornelius keg is made from stainless steel and is typically used commercially that is capable of holding a maximum pressure of 130 PSI. Cornelius kegs can have either a pin-lock or a ball lock (but your system can only cope with one of these options) and all kegs have two connections. These are called quick-disconnects, with one responsible for supplying the CO2 and one for dispensing the beer.

#2 The CO2 Tank

CO2 tanks come in a range of sizes between 2.5 pounds up to as much as 20 pounds. If you plan to carbonate more than one keg, then you will want to use a larger C02 tank. 5-pounds is sufficient for a single keg at a time and can make around 6 full batches. It’s a good idea to exchange your tanks rather than have them refilled if possible as otherwise, they will need to be hydrostatically tested every five years for the Department of Transportation. If the pressure of your tank is below 600 psi, you will know you need to get a refill however you plan to do it.

#3 Regulator

A CO2 regulator is a valve that controls the pressure of the CO2 being released from the tank. The regulator can be used to increase or lower the pressure passing through the valve and also lets you know how much gas is left in the tank. It’s important to ensure the regulator is securely fastened before you make any adjustments to the pressure entering the keg as messing around with high-pressure gas is dangerous! Fortunately, regulators come with two dials to help you monitor the pressure you are putting into the keg.

#4 Beer Tap

You can’t get the beer form your keg without a beer tap. A beer tap is simply a faucet that can be hammered into the appropriate spot on your keg and give you the necessary access to your liquid gold. Picnic taps are a good option to go for when it comes to choosing a beer tap as they are easy to use, cheap, and effective.

#5 Refrigerator

The one downside of kegged beer is that it can be more liable to go off quickly if not kept well once it has been tapped. This means you are going to need a cool place to store it, with the easiest way to do this typically being some form of refrigeration. The key temperature range you need to keep your beer at is between 33-55 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step-by-Step guide to keg your own beer

With all the necessary equipment at the ready and your beer has completed its fermentation processes you can now move on to conditioning your beer and learning how to keg your homebrewed beer.

#1 Release pressure from your keg your keg

Make sure you have removed any pressure left in as the first step in your preparations using the in-built release valve. High pressure and loosened parts can be very dangerous so it is vital not to forget this step.

#2 Take apart your keg

Be careful to remember where the keg’s fittings, gaskets, and other components that you disassemble from the keg go to make it easier to put back together when ready.

#3 Sanitize the keg

Even if it is brand new you should still do this and you do not want anything to contaminate your brew as it conditions in your keg. If you have used it before, there will be some residue from your last brew. You can remove this with a couple of ounces of powdered brewery wash and about half the keg’s capacity of water. You should also put all the components in this mix. Be careful not to use a harsh scouring pad on the inside of the keg to avoid scratches that can allow contaminants to evade sanitization. It’s a good idea to leave the parts soaking overnight and then repeat the process once more to ensure everything is completely sanitized.

#4 Rinse the components

Once everything has been fully sanitized, you need to give everything a thorough rinse as you don’t want a nasty chemical taste getting into your brew.

#5 Put the keg back together

This is where your memory (and ability to follow instructions properly) will be fully tested!

#6 Sanitize the keg again!

This might seem like overkill, but it’s not. Now the keg is back together you can truly ensure it is sanitized. Fill it with water and powdered brewery wash with an hour the right way up and hour upside down to ensure everywhere is reached. Drain this out and rinse thoroughly with hot water.

#7 Pressurize your keg

It’s important to check that the gasket is fully sealed and fastened before pressurizing your keg. Remember that gas pressure varies by temperature so check what psi you will need based on the temperature you are planning to keep your beer at on a forced carbonation chart. At 40 degrees Fahrenheit, 10-11 psi should do the trick.

#8 Chill your beer

Within a week your homebrew is going to carbonate and be ready to taste all you have to do is keep it at the right temperature.

How to choose the best kegging system

So now you know some of the benefits of kegging, what equipment you need, and how to do it all you need now is to go out and find the kit. Here we outline some of our favorite kegging systems to help get you started.

Top 5 Best Kegging System 2019

#1 Best Portable Kegging System: Keg Smiths’ 128oz (3.5 liter) Portable Draft Keg System with CO2 regulation

If you love homebrew and like the idea of giving kegging your own beer a try but also want to be able to share your wonderful craft with your friends, then you should check out this portable kegging system. With a capacity of just 8 pints, it’s easy to transport but big enough for a hearty session alongside a few hands of poker or shooting some pool with good friends.

The pros of this kegging system are that: it is nice and easy to follow the included instructions; it is simple to clean and sanitize; it is made from stainless steel so is sturdy, and; it comes with a tap to make it easy to pour a nice draught beer whenever you want. The downside of this setup is that it doesn’t come with a CO2 cartridge (you will need a threaded cartridge system).

#Kegs #Kegged_Beer #Kegging_System #Portable_Kegs #Homebrew

#2 Best Cornelius Kegging System: The Weekend Brewer’s Mini Keg with Ball Lock Tapping System

For those who want to give a Cornelius keg a try, this is the option for you. With 5-liter capacity, this keg is not huge which means it is also pretty portable if you fancy taking your brew on the road and still holds a decent 10 pints worth to keep you going. Many people find a Cornelius kegging system easier to use thanks to the double ball lock system which makes carbonation less tricky to achieve.

Other pluses of this kegging system are that: it is compatible with all standard ball-lock disconnects; it has a simple pressure relief valve which makes it easy to safely take apart; it is super sturdy; it fits neatly in most average-sized fridges making it easier to keep at the optimum temperature, and; it is a great price. The downside of this kegging system is that it doesn’t come with a CO2 tank and is quite small.

#Kegging_Systems #Homebrew_Kit #Beers #Craft_Beer #Homebrewing

#3 Best Kit for Kegging your own Beer at Home: Draft Brewer’s Single Homebrew Kegging System

This great bit of kit is designed to make kegging your own beer at home easy even if you are a true novice. The handy dials make it easy to adjust the pressure and really play around with carbonation levels in your homebrew so you can really get to grips with the different effects this has on the flavoring of your homebrews.

Other pluses about this kegging system are that: it is huge with a 5-gallon capacity; it has dual-gauge CO2 regulator as well as a draw beer line to make it easy to pour your beer straight from the keg without needing to buy a tap, and; it rapidly carbonates beer in as little as 2-4 days. The downside of this setup is that it is not that portable and, although it says it includes everything you need out of the box, does not come with a CO2 tank!

#Double_Ball_Lock_Kegs #Home_Kegging #Homebrewing #Beer #Ale #Kegs

#4 Best Value Large Cornelius Keg: Learn To Brew LLC’s 5 Gallon Ball Lock Cornelius Keg

If you don’t have a huge budget but have your heart set on a larger kegging system than portable kits can offer you, then you should check out this basic but effective kegging system. For under $100 it brings you a 5–gallon keg complete with a pressure release valve, has been tested up to 130 PSI and is durable so will last you for many years.

The other benefits of this kegging system are that: it can be used with a kegerator thanks to having ball lock disconnects; it can be refrigerated; it is great value for a keg of this size. The downsides of this system are that it is made from aluminum, it is quite cheaply made, and there are no pressure dials.

#Large_Kegs #Homebrew_Kegging #Craft_Ale #Ales #Keggin_Setup

#5 Best Value Mini-Kegging System: NutriChef’s Pressurized Growler Tap System and Kegerator Kit

This special bit of kit is great for those who don’t get through their beer quickly but want it to retain that crisp, fresh carbonated taste and will keep beer tasting this way for a good two months at a time. It also comes with everything you need except for the CO2 making this a good choice for the novice kegger.

Other things to like about this kegging kit are that: it is made from stainless steel, including all of its component parts; it can hold up to 8 pints; it is highly portable; it comes with a tap to make pouring easy, and; it is great value. The downsides of this system are that it doesn’t have a huge capacity and it is a little bit unstable when full.

#Kegs #Kegging_At_Home #Kegged_Beer #Kegging_Ale #Craft_Beer

Conclusion

So there you have it! You now have all the information you need to get started with kegging your own homebrewed beer in the comfort of your own home. Whether you want to share that with others with a portable system or just want to maximize the amount of beer you’re able to keg in one go, this list has the setup for your needs.

See more maybe you are interested here.

Best Brew Kettles for Homebrewing(Review 2019) – Why should you Have a Best Brew Kettles?

A brew kettle is one of the most essential pieces of equipment within a home brewers repertoire. When starting out with home brewing many novice brewers use a stockpot from the kitchen for their first attempt at homebrew, which is fine, but as you progress in your brewing adventures you’re likely to want a bigger and better vessel for conducting your boil in.

You might want to see this first: Best Brew Burner

There are a vast array of brew kettles out there ranging from simple pots to those with all the mod cons. Whether you’re looking to buy your first brew kettle or you want to upgrade your existing one, we cover everything you need to know before purchasing and review some excellent products along the way.

What is a brew kettle?

A brew kettle is essentially a large pot that has been specifically designed for the boiling stage of the brewing process where your wort begins to transform into beer. Choosing the right brew kettle for you depends on your brewing style as well as your budget. It is worth taking some time to consider what you want out of your brew kettle before purchasing as it should be a purchase that will last you for years and is a key milestone in your homebrewing journey.

Brew Kettle Buying Guide: Everything you need to know before you buy

You will see that there is a variety of brew kettles out there, some of which are pretty pricey and come with all the bells and whistles you could possibly think of. In this guide, we will talk about you need to consider before purchasing your brewing kettle and what the essential features that it should have. We will then go on to talk about any additional extras that you can get as part of your brew kettle if your budget can stretch to it.

#1 Size (yes, it really does matter!)

The first thing to think about is the size of the brew kettle you are after. In our opinion, even if you’re planning on only brewing small batches of beer it is worth investing in a brew kettle that’s on the larger scale as you never know where your new hobby may take you. The bigger your brew kettle the more beer you can brew in one go and boiling as much wort as possible can actually lead to a tastier beer.

You’ll need to buy a brew kettle that can accommodate the volume of beer you wish to brew in addition to some extra space to ensure it doesn’t boil over. There is nothing stopping you brewing a 5 gallon batch of beer in a 10 gallon kettle which is why we recommend buying a brew kettle that is bigger than you anticipate to need. It will be frustrating if you opt for a small brew kettle and then decide you want to brew bigger batches further down the line as you will then need to spend your hard-earned cash on another brew kettle. Buying a brew kettle that can accommodate larger volumes is sure to be the right choice in the long run.

#2 Material

The material you opt for when selecting your brew kettle will largely depend on your budget. Brew kettles are generally either made out of stainless steel or aluminum, both of which have their pros and cons.

#1 Stainless Steel

The more expensive option and the preference of large-scale breweries, as well as smaller craft brewers, is stainless steel. This durable material is easy to clean, corrosion-resistant and non-reactive making it an excellent material for a brew kettle. Unfortunately, it is also pretty pricey so investing in a stainless steel brew kettle requires some thought as well as a big budget. If you’re planning on doing a lot of home brewing and love to invest in equipment that is built to last for several decades than selecting a stainless steel brew kettle is a wise choice.

#2 Aluminum

A cheaper option when it comes to brew kettles are those made out of aluminum. This widely used material is lightweight and it actually conducts heat better than stainless steel so your wort will be heating up much quicker. However, there is one big downside of aluminum in that it is a highly reactive metal. This means that it can react with cleaning products and can pass off flavors into your beers if not treated properly.

If you decide to go with the cheaper aluminum option you will need to develop an oxide layer on the inside of your brew kettle in order to protect your beer. This can be done by boiling water in the brew kettle before using it to boil your wort and this should be done each time you use it. Some brewers don’t mind taking this additional step in the process but if this sounds like too much effort it might be worth spending some extra cash on a stainless steel brew kettle.

#3 Volume Markings

Make sure that the brew kettle you opt for has volume markings marked on the inside of the brew kettle. This really is an essential feature of a brew kettle as it makes measuring out all of your ingredients so much easier and it takes you one step closer to ensuring the perfect beer.

#4 Additional Extras

If you’re budget stretches to it it is worth considering a brew kettle that comes with some extra features that assist with the brewing process.

#1 Thermometer

Some brew kettles come in with a built-in analog dial thermometer which sits on the outside of the brew kettle. This is situated in the perfect place to be able to accurately give a reading of the temperature of your wort which is necessary to ensure a successful boil. Having a thermometer built in is a whole lot easier than trying to do this manually.

#2 Ball Valves

This simple addition to a brew kettle can really save you a lot of difficulties when it comes to transferring your wort to another vessel. Attempting to maneuver a huge brew kettle full of boiling hot wort can be a little daunting (not to mention dangerous) and so having a ball valve attached means you can allow the wort to be transferred in a much more controlled manner.

#3 Dip Tubes

You will find that some brew kettles come with a dip tube. This handy piece of equipment makes collecting the wort easy and efficient and helps to ensure that it is not transferred to the next vessel.

Top 5 Best Brew Kettles 2019

#1 Best 15 Gallon Stainless Steel Brew Kettle: Concord Cookware Stainless Steel Home Brew Kettle Stock Pot

This great value brew kettle from Concord Cookware is a good choice if you’re just starting out with homebrewing and you don’t want to spend megabucks but still want to go with a stainless steel model. Made out of 304 stainless steel this brew kettle is still sure to last you a long time and is a worthy addition to your brewing repertoire.

This particular model can hold 15 gallons, however, it comes in a variety of sizes ranging from 5 gallons to 45 gallons! There are also a weldless port and thermometer that come as part of this brew kettle which will make monitoring the temperature of your wort and removing it from the brew kettle a whole lot easier. The kettle will arrive unassembled but it super easy to put together and the weld-less construction makes this a very easy brew kettle to clean after brewing.

#Brew_Kettle #Stainless_steel #Concord #Wort #Boiling #Beer #Homebrew

#2 Best Quality 8 Gallon Stainless Steel Brew Kettle: Northern Brewer Megapot 1.2 Stainless Steel Brew Kettle with Volume Markings (8 Gallon)

Here is another superb product from Northern Brewer and, as ever, they don’t disappoint when it comes to expert design and quality. Crafted by expert brewers this brew kettle has all the features a brewer needs to make home brewing a breeze. Made out of high quality 1.2 stainless steel this brew kettle is going to be your brewing companion for decades to come.

Inside this brew kettle are the all-important volume markings which are marked in 1 gallon increments so that measuring is stress-free. This brew kettle includes the all-important thermometer and ball valve (which are weld-less). In addition to these key features, this brew kettle goes the extra mile with a 4mm thick Tri-Clad Bottom which ensures even heat distribution no matter what your heat source is. The heat-proof silicone handles which keep your hands safe when handling your hot pot of wort.

#Northern_brewer #Brew_Kettle #Brew_pot #Stock_pot #Brewing #Craftbeer

#3 Best 10 Gallon Stainless Steel Brew Kettle: GasOne 10 Gallon Stainless Steel Home Brew Kettle Pot

This is a great value brew kettle that has some excellent features that have been specifically designed to assist brewers of all abilities. The heavy-duty stainless steel construction makes this a sturdy brew kettle which is highly durable. The Tri-Ply aluminum bottom is suitable for use with both stovetops and induction cookers, the presence of aluminum here also helps to ensure that your brew kettle has maximum conduction abilities and even heat distribution.

You will be pleased to hear that this brew kettle comes with engraved measurements markings on the inside of the pot to ensure you measure out the perfect ratios for your wort. The only downside of this brew kettle is that it doesn’t include a thermometer, but this can be purchased separately and attached to where the bolt is at the front of the pot. There is a ball valve attachment, however, so siphoning out your beer will be no problem.

#GasOne #Stainless_steel #Brew_kettle #Stock_pot #Boiling #Wort #Brewing

#4 Best Brew Kettle Kit: Bayou Classic 800-410, 10 Gallon Stainless Steel 6 piece Brew Kettle

This well thought out kit from Bayou Classic provides you with everything you need to conduct the perfect boil. The 10 gallon brew kettle is made out of premium stainless steel and includes a try-ply bottom ensures even heat distribution – taking the benefits of aluminum without any possibility of the metal interacting with your wort. This set also comes with a false bottom whose job it is to reduce the incidence of particles and grain getting into the spigot chamber.

Other key features of this brew kettle are the thermometer attachment and the spigot which are easily attached with the bulkhead fittings. The all-important measurement markings are also engraved into the side of this brew kettle to ensure accuracy. Whether you’re a beginner to home brewing or are looking for a brew kettle replacement this set from Bayou Classic ticks all the boxes and is sure to be a faithful friend for years to come on your brewing journey.

#Bayou_Classic #Thermometer #Ball_valve #Spigot #False_bottom #Brewing #Wort #Boil

#5 Best Brew Kettle on a Budget: Bayou Classic 1420 Brew Kettle, Stainless Steel

If you’re on a budget or you fancy having a taste of brewing without shedding out lots of cash then this simple brew kettle by Bayou Classic may be the option for you. It is a straightforward brew kettle with none of the bells and whistles of the brew kettles reviewed above, however, it will still do the job of boiling your wort well and will also double up as a stockpot for other cooking needs so if the brewing doesn’t work out you certainly haven’t wasted your money!

It is made out of good quality stainless steel so is durable as well as easy to clean after you have boiled your wort. There are also side calibration marks engraved in the brew kettle so that measuring out your wort ingredients is significantly easier than in an ordinary stockpot. A great value brew kettle that is a good choice for beginners who are brewing on a budget.

#Budget #Brewing #Craftbeer #Brew_kettle #Brew_pot #Homebrew

Conclusion

Investing in a brew kettle is a key milestone in your brewing journey as this important piece of equipment will be a game-changer when it comes to boiling up your wort. A brew kettle not only allows you to brew up much larger quantities of beer, it also comes with some key features that make this stage in the brewing process a whole lot easier.

There are a range of brew kettles available ranging from those that come with ball valve, spigot and thermometer attachments to those that can double up as a stockpot. Whatever you decide, brew kettles have been specifically designed for boiling your wort so are sure to improve the quality of the beer you produce.

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Best Conical Beer Fermenters(Review 2019) – What is the difference between stainless steel conical fermentation and plastic?

When it comes to homebrewing there are so many gadgets out there that it can be hard to know where to start. You might have seen or heard about a conical fermenter and wondered how this clever device can help you with your home brewing venture. Well, you’ve come to the right place as in this article we take you through exactly what a conical fermenter is and how this device can save you time and effort when brewing. We will also take a look at some excellent conical fermenters that you can purchase online.

You might want to see this first: Best Carboy Fermenters

What is a Conical Fermenter?

A Conical Fermenter for homebrewing is based on the large scale fermenters that you will have seen in a large brewery if you have ever had the chance to visit one. As the name suggests, a Conical Fermenter is shaped like a cone at the bottom of the fermenter as opposed to the usual fermenters that have a flat bottom. While this shaped fermenter has previously been reserved for large-scale brewing the homebrewing market is now catching up and there are many options of conical fermenters available for small-scale brewing operations.

These excellent vessels can come with a hefty price tag but there are a variety of models on the market with plastic models being considerably cheaper than the more expensive stainless steel alternatives. Despite the price tag, if you’ve already dabbled in homebrewing then you will know that investing in some quality equipment at the beginning can have a multitude of benefits in the long run when it comes to producing top-notch beer.

Why do I need a Conical Fermenter?

So, now you know what a conical fermenter is it’s time to look at why the shape of this fermenter makes it beneficial over an ordinary flat-bottomed fermenter. There is a reason, of course, that this is largely the type of fermenter used in large-scale brewing – namely because it is the most efficient way of brewing beer. Let’s take a look at why.

#1 One vessel for primary and secondary fermentation

Allowing beer to go through secondary fermentation is a popular choice amongst beer enthusiasts as it allows the beer to clarify and can help beers to achieve a better flavor. However, the process of secondary fermentation (without a conical fermenter) requires the process of ‘racking’ which means transferring your beer from a primary fermentation vessel to a secondary vessel (so that the debris leftover from the yeast and hops is removed). This process requires optimum caution as during this process the beer can be exposed to infection and oxidation which are your beers worst enemies.

Fortunately, thanks to the design of conical fermenters the process of racking is unnecessary as primary and secondary fermentation can both take place in this vessel. This is because all of the debris from the primary fermentation process gathers within the funnel at the bottom of the fermenter, so when this stage of fermentation is over you can simply open the valve and remove the sediment leaving the beer to go through its secondary fermentation with minimal hassle.

#2 Reuse your Yeast – Saving you money

Another great aspect of using a conical fermenter is, thanks to the shape and valve at the bottom you can collect the yeast as you remove the debris for secondary fermentation. This yeast can be reused (after washing) in your next batch of beer which can save you a lot of cash if you plan on brewing regularly as a packet of liquid beer yeast can cost up to $20 a packet. In addition to saving you money, you’re also likely to get a better fermentation the next time you use it as the yeast is already active. So it really is a win win situation!

#3 Less cleaning and saves you time

Brewing can be a time-consuming process and any step to make it that little bit easier is worth taking in our book. As using a conical fermenter means that you do your primary and secondary fermentation in just the one vessel, this means that you have one less vessel to clean and sanitize which saves you both time and a whole lot of effort. Plus, if you’re using a stainless steel conical fermenter these are a lot easier to sanitize as they harbor a lot fewer bacteria than plastic vessels.

What are the different types of Conical Fermenters?

#1 Stainless Steel Conical Fermenters

The most expensive option when it comes to conical fermenters are those made out of stainless steel. While the price tag may seem a little drastic (around $200), fermenters made out of stainless steel are super durable so will last a long time and are also easy to clean and sanitize so will also save you time. Stainless steel fermenters are a worthy investment and will see you brewing beer after beer whilst retaining their excellent quality.

#2 Plastic Conical Fermenters

If your budget is a little more restricted, or you are just testing out whether homebrewing is for you, then you might want to consider a plastic conical fermenter. Coming in at about half the price, or less, than a stainless steel conical fermenter it does the same job but is of a slightly inferior quality. That being said, it is still a valuable vessel to have in your brewing repertoire as it still retains the same benefits listed above including being the sole vessel for primary and secondary fermentation, cutting down on cleaning time and allowing you to reuse your yeast. There are many affordable plastic conical fermenters on the market that can set you off on your straightforward brewing journey.

Top 5 Best Conical Fermenters 2019

#1 Best BrewDemon Plastic Conical Fermenter: BrewDemon Conical Fermenter by Demon Brewing Company

If you’re looking for a conical fermenter that costs under $50 then this is the product for you. BrewDemon are a highly reputable company so you know you are getting a quality product that is made in the USA. You can make 2 and 2.5 gallon batches of beer in this fermenter and thanks to the conical shape you can do primary and secondary fermentation in one place as the trub will collect in the bottom.

This great value product also comes with the fermenter base, spigot, stick-on temperature gauge, and CO2 vent plug. Bottling your beer is also super easy from this conical fermenter thanks to the brew tap included in the design. With everything you need in one place, this plastic conical fermenter is a great choice for a first-time brewer. BrewDemon also provides a 2 year warranty and are just at the end of the phone if you need any support with using the equipment.

#BrewDemon #Homebrewing #ConicalFermenter #Fermentation #Secondary_fermentation #Beer

#2 Best Plastic Conical Fermenter Kit: Craft A Brew Premium Homebrew Starter Kit with 6.5 Gallon Conical Fermenter

This plastic conical fermenter by Craft A Brew comes with everything you need to get started for your first homebrew. The conical fermenter itself has been expertly designed to ensure brewing is a breeze. The unique design includes a wide mason jar which collects the sediment from the primary fermentation and a Trub Trab butterfly valve which allows you to seal the beer in the conical fermenter whilst being able to remove the trub filled mason jar. This allows secondary fermentation to commence without having to do any tricky siphoning.

What’s fantastic about this kit is that, in addition to the conical fermenter, it also includes a 5 gallon recipe kit which you can choose depending on your beer preference, a capping kit, thermometer and comprehensive guide to brewing and fermenting. If you like the idea of purchasing everything you need to brew a batch of beer in a complete kit then this is a good choice for you – especially if you’re looking to use a conical fermenter.

#Plastic #ConicalFermenter #CraftABrew #Homebrew #Craftbeer #Fermentation

#3 Best 7 Gallon Stainless Steel Conical Fermenter: Ss Brewtech Home Brewing Chronical Fermenter Stainless Steel (7 Gallon)

This top of the range stainless steel conical fermenter from Ss Brewtech really is an investment, but if you are serious about your homebrewing it is a worthwhile purchase to make. Based on the large conical fermenters you see in a craft brewery this stainless steel conical fermenter has all the bells and whistles you need to brew premium beer. Allowing primary and secondary fermentation in the one vessel thanks to the dump valve at the bottom which permits the removal of unwanted trub. It also makes it straightforward to harvest the yeast to use again.

In addition to its ability to conduct primary and secondary fermentation in one place, this superb conical fermenter also comes with a Fermentation Temperature Stabilization System which ensures that your beer is kept within the correct temperature range throughout the fermentation process. If you want to see top results with your homebrewing efforts we recommend investing in this impressive piece of kit.

#Stainless_steel #Homebrewing #Secondary_fermentation #Ale #Craftbeer #Pint #Chronical_fermenter

#4 Best Conical Base Fermenter: VEVOR 7 Gallon Stainless Steel Brew Fermenter with Conical Base

This conical base stainless steel fermenter from VEVOR is a definite upgrade from a bucket or carboy fermenter that you may previously have been using. Made out of food-grade 304 stainless steel this conical fermenter is strong, corrosion-resistant and certainly built to last. You can brew up to 7 gallons of beer in this fermenter and, thanks to the conical shape, the trub and yeast gather in the bottom thereby reducing the interaction it has with the beer as it comes to its final stages.

This conical fermenter also comes with a rotatable racking arm which makes it incredibly easy to extract the clean beer from the vessel. Thanks to the stainless steel this conical fermenter is also easy to clean and maintain remaining a high level of sanitation which is essential to making excellent beer. This fermenter also comes with a set of mounting accessories. For under $200 here is a superb stainless steel conical fermenter.

#VEVOR #Stainless_steel #Conical_fermenter #Craftbeer #Homebrew #Makeyourown

#5 Best 3 Gallon Plastic Conical Fermenter: FastFerment Conical Fermenter 3 Gallon

You might be wanting to brew a small batch of beer for your first attempt at homebrewing. If this is the case, check out this plastic conical fermenter from FastFerment. It allows you to brew small batches of beer using a one-stage system thanks to the conical shape and mason jar attachment which allows you to remove unwanted sediment and to harvest yeast in order to reuse it.

This plastic conical fermenter also comes with a bottling attachment which means that you can easily transfer your brewed beer from the fermenter into bottles or a keg with minimal hassle. The solid welded stand also comes included so you can get straight to work in making your first ever batch of homebrew. If you want to try a conical fermenter but are on a low budget then this set of equipment from FastFerment is a sound choice.

#FastFerment #Homebrew #Conical_fermenter #Craftbeer #Budget #Pint #Beeroclock

Conclusion

Investing in a conical fermenter is a good idea if you are planning on conducting secondary fermentation as it takes away the need to siphon your beer from one vessel. Siphoning is not only messy, but it can also expose your beer to oxygen and possible infection. With a conical fermenter, this part of the process is removed as the conical shape allows the sediment to gather at the bottom which can then be easily removed. Conducting fermentation in one place makes brewing a whole lot easier.

Conical fermenters can be made out of either stainless steel or plastic with the latter being significantly more expensive. If you plan on making a habit of homebrewing then it is worth investing in a stainless steel conical fermenter. A plastic conical fermenter is a good idea if you are completely new to homebrewing and want to try out the techniques before investing a whole load of cash in brewing equipment.