Topic: Fermentation
Using a Water Bath for Temperature Control
Plus Members OnlyControlling temperature is a key part of producing better beer. Whether it is keeping your fermenting beer in the proper temperature range for the yeast strain you’ve chosen or for extended lagering techniques, being able to accurately dial in temperature will result in a higher quality beer without risking off-flavors, off-aromas, and incomplete fermentation if
The Importance Of Fermentation Temperatures
Digital and Plus Members OnlyFermentation temperature definitely affects beer flavor and fermentation rate, however some yeast strains are more influenced by temperature than others. I will come back to this in a moment. Brewers who have a spot at home with a relatively constant temperature should consider making this their norm. My basement stays right at 64 °F (18
The Importance Of A Diacetyl Rest
Digital and Plus Members OnlyDiacetyl rests or colloquially known as d-rests, whether brewing lagers or ales, are good insurance policies to help ward off diacetyl. Many recipes focus on wort production and provide little in the way of specific guidance when it comes to fermentation and aging. This is especially true when it comes to nuanced methods like addressing
Using a Corny Keg For Chilling & Primary Fermentation
Digital and Plus Members OnlyThere are a few possible problems with this plan, but none are insurmountable. What you are describing is something akin to coolships that were ubiquitously used by lager and ale brewers before better types of coolers were used. Even after the development of modern wort cooling using plate coolers, some lager brewers continue to use
Clues To Identifying An Infection
FREEIdentifying beer spoilage by visual observation can be a challenge, but the photo of your brew does look suspect. If I were to wager a bet, my money would be on Acetobacter
Between Pitch and Pint: Advanced fermenter/dispenser automation
FREEAutomation is a fun side hobby for many brewers, but it is not just for the brewhouse. Get some high-level ideas and info on the components available for automating your cellar.
Conical Fermenters
Plus Members OnlySmall-scale conical fermenters are becoming increasingly popular with homebrewers. Brew Your Own Magazine’s Technical Editor Ashton Lewis shows you how to get the most out of your conical fermenter and what makes it different from other homebrew fermenters.
Forced Fermentation Tests
Plus Members OnlyBrew Your Own Magazine’s Technical Editor Ashton Lewis shows you how to conduct your own forced fermentation tests to help determine in advance the expected finishing gravity of a batch of beer that just had yeast added.
Fermentation Temperature Control
Plus Members OnlyBeing able to control your fermentation temperatures is one of the true keys to making better beer. Brew Your Own Magazine’s Technical Editor Ashton Lewis shows you some options for temperature control and why it is so important.
Open Fermentations: Circling back to fermenters of yesteryear
Digital and Plus Members OnlyOpen fermentation is something that is espoused for many styles to develop their expressive character. Denny and Drew explain the process and why you may want to give it a try along with a favorite recipe of theirs.
Selecting a Fermenter
Digital and Plus Members OnlyThis is a straight-up opinion question and I will give you my thoughts sans specific type or brand. And as a reminder to seasoned readers and news to newer readers, 20 years of my professional career was with a custom, stainless steel equipment company where I saw some pretty interesting brewing equipment. My first thought
Get the Most from Your Yeast
FREEYeast can make or break your recipe. A number of factors must be considered when choosing yeast, and then you need to provide the best conditions in order to get the best results.