Topics

1

Yeast and Fermentation / White Labs vials?

« on: August 17, 2012, 05:20:11 pm »

After recently making a starter for a rather large brew day, I got to thinking: there's got to be a use for all of these White Labs vials. So, let's hear it -- what's the best use of the vials once they're empty?

2

Going Pro / Cart before the horse? Maybe - meh...

« on: January 26, 2012, 01:40:45 pm »

The specifics of my plan for going pro have changed slightly and I've come to the realization that it will benefit me in the long run to go bigger with the brew system. In light of this, I made a purchase!  

I'm thinking I can turn this 324 gallon jacketed processing tank into a brew kettle -- either direct fire or low pressure steam. But I keep waffling back and forth. Presuming the jacket can hold pressure (which will need to be tested), steam seems like it would be easier to get inspector approval, but would be much more costly than direct fire.

I'm interested to hear any thoughts from the forum -- cheers!

3

The Pub / Brewery Oops's.....

« on: November 26, 2011, 08:15:57 pm »

Ever do something in the brewery that you immediately know is a bad idea, but that split second realization isn't fast enough? Here's mine from yesterday --



Skipped chilling since it was starter wort and was going into quart jars for sterilizing. But, when you spill just a tad and want to clean up a bit, it's a bad idea to use cold water to do so. Just sayin....

Carboy down!!

4

Equipment and Software / Gear bargains!

« on: October 13, 2011, 12:17:47 pm »

I know that I've run into some good supplies and gear deals from time to time (typically by accident), and thought "I bet that there is a ton of homebrewers out there that have done the same". What better than a forum to share and compile tips and tricks for getting supplies and gear for a great bargain, amiright?! So, here's a couple I've come across:

Quick Disconnects: www.proflodynamics.com -- cam lock QD's that work great if you've got a rig with pumps / hoses. These could probably find themselves an application on an immersion / CF chiller!

Plate Chillers and ball valves: www.dudadiesel.com -- great chillers at lower prices than you could get elsewhere!

I'm sure I've run across more of these types of deals, but can't think of any others of the top of my head... I'll revisit when I do!

Cheers!

5

Beer Travel / McLean / Herndon, VA

« on: July 15, 2011, 12:00:50 pm »

Work takes me to McLean, Herndon and Tyson's Corner, VA next week -- any suggestions for 'must visit' brewbups, breweries, beer joints, etc?

6

Equipment and Software / Someone's got their work cut out for them...

« on: July 13, 2011, 12:01:08 am »

Welp -- looks like the next project landed on my doorstep today...

7

All Grain Brewing / Technical Difficulties!!

« on: May 10, 2011, 09:57:38 am »

This last weekend, I brewed a pretty standard wheat with the bill consisting of approximately 30% wheat malt (15% white wheat malt and 15% red wheat malt) and the remaining 2-row pale. My mash schedule was supposed to be:

5 min @ 115F
raise to 140F and hold for 15 min
raise to 153F and hold for 15 min

Due to some technical difficulties with the sparge arm, my 15 min at 115F turned into 45 min. BUT, I was able to get the HERMS back in action and hit the other two rests right on for the right times. OG turned out fine at 11.6 Brix (1.045 SG), but I'm concerned about the effects of the extended lower mash temp on the flavor profile given the expected "highly sessionable" profile of this light wheat ale.

Any thoughts on what I should expect out of the beer? I suspect it may be a little watery with some head retention problems, but haven't every had a protein rest go that long before.

While the RDWHAHB holds true, I can't help but be a little anxious. Thanks forum! 

8

Ingredients / Rhizome Trimming

« on: February 11, 2011, 08:55:24 am »

Two years ago, I (like many crazy homebrewers) decided to test my green thumb in the spirit of self-sustainable brews by planting some rhizomes. Now that the little guys have had a couple of years to get established, I'm wondering when I need to dig up the rhizomes and trim them back.

Any thoughts on timing, frequency, procedures, etc.? I've heard of digging up the entire "ball" and replanting after trimming up the ball, but that seems like overkill....

9

Equipment and Software / PH Meter Selection

« on: September 21, 2010, 01:48:44 pm »

For those of you in homebrewland using ph meters, what's your make/model? I'm interested in getting one, but would like some input. Thanks!

10

General Homebrew Discussion / Brew Shoes?

« on: June 27, 2010, 11:59:39 am »

After dropping a 6.5 gallon glass carboy on my feet 6 months ago, I have been on the search for the perfect brewing shoes. So far, the closest I've come is the Rogue "BrewShoes" and some of the Lacrosse boots -

Any thoughts on the perfect brew shoes?