Anyone brew beer?
A friend and I have been brewing small batches for a few months now. We have had an excellent success rate thus far. A couple have been nothing special, however most have turned out nearly professional. One or two have been better than anything I can find in the same category commercially.
I find that with two people it is both entertaining, good dude time, and a constant learning experience.
We started with basic pots and pans that were either a few bucks or already in our homes. Brewed on the stove too. After a few months we moved out of the kitchen and into the garage.
We use a piece of software, a few forums, and YouTube to help us work through the recipes and brewing process. The information, tools, and supplies available these days is truly amazing.
Recently we began the process of upgrading to better hardware for larger and more efficient batches. That means 5 gallon instead of one gallon batches.
We have brewed pale ales, IPAs, Belgian Strongs, Porter, and an Imperial Stout. With the Belgians as the clear winners and an orange peel IPA as a close second.
For us I think the most difficult part of the process was learning how to achieve the optical clarity that takes a great tasting beer to a level that makes it difficult to tell from any microbrew off the shelf.
If anyone has an interest in this, post and I will step you through what you need.