Is it Difficult to Brew your Own Beer?
Many beer drinkers ask this question and the short answer is no; however, brewing a beer with a good taste is something else entirely. Like most things, brewing beer is a skill that takes time and as long as you closely follow the instructions and maintain the right environment, there’s no reason why you can’t create a really tasty beer.
What Equipment Do I Need?
In order to brew a small batch of beer, you will need the following:
- Brewing bucket
- Bubbler
- Siphon hose
- Beer kit
You can buy everything you need from the online supplier and if you would like to sample some premier microbrew beer, check out the local NZ microbreweries that offer their products for sale. This will give you something to compare with your first batch and if you get anywhere near close, you are to be congratulated.
What is the Process?
Before you start, it is critical that all the equipment you use is sanitised, then put the contents of the beer kit into a pot, making sure to follow the instructions. The controlled boil creates the ‘wort’, which is the solution you are going to ferment, then with a slow cooling down and the right mixing of the ingredients, the yeast is given 2 weeks to do its work.
Pouring into the Bottles
If you are using a carryboy or bottles, fill with the finished liquid and seal the container. You will see bubbles in the bubbler or air lock, as the yeast reacts and when the bubbling stops at around 2 weeks, the fermenting process is finished. While you are waiting, use Google to source a local microbrewery and order some fine pale ales and lagers. The microbrewer has attained the level where they can add subtle tastes and they have developed recipes for their products, with new beers coming out on a regular basis.
An Alternative to Home Brewing
You might not have the time or the inclination to make your own beer and with online sales of locally brewed beer, you can order a selection of premier craft beers, before choosing one and ordering a bulk delivery.
Free Online Resources
The Internet hosts a wealth of resources about brewing beer and we recommend that you fully understand, not only the process, but what to avoid. Of course, there are many ways to brew beer, and you should start with a kit that contains everything you need and as you become more proficient, your beer will taste better.
