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From: michaelh@tekecs.UUCP (Michael Herbert)
Newsgroups: net.wines
Subject: Re: Brewing beer
Message-ID: <5927@tekecs.UUCP>
Date: Mon, 3-Feb-86 16:37:42 EST
Article-I.D.: tekecs.5927
Posted: Mon Feb  3 16:37:42 1986
Date-Received: Tue, 4-Feb-86 07:31:25 EST
Reply-To: michaelh@tekecs.UUCP (Michael Herbert)
Distribution: na
Organization: Tektronix, Wilsonville OR
Lines: 57


In article <365@watmum.UUCP>, tjsmedley@watmum.UUCP (Trevor J. Smedley) writes:
> I'd like to start brewing my own beer and was wondering if anyone had
> any pointers. I think, for the first batch at least, I'd like to use 
> one of those "kits" with everything included. Any suggestions? I
> prefer an ale.


Well, it's good to see some discussion about beer in this newsgroup!
I've been brewing beer for about 3 years now and have brewed 25-30
batches during that time. I would strongly encourage you to try it.

You are correct in assuming that a kit is the easiest way to brew
your first batch of beer. The problem with kits, however, is that
most of them suggest you supplement the malt extract in the kit with
corn sugar. Corn sugar is a cheap and easy way to increase the
alcoholic content of the beer, but it unfortunately imparts a
rather cidery bite to the finished product (your beer). Without
knowing exactly which kit you're using, it's difficult for me
suggest an alternative. 

What I will do, however, is suggest a few good sources of information
for a beginning homebrewer.

1. Get a copy of the book entitled "The Complete Joy of Homebrewing" 
by Charlie Papazian. It has detailed descriptions of beginning, 
intermediate, and advanced homebrewing techniques, lots of illustrations,
and over 50 recipes. It is the most complete and easy-to-read text
that I've seen on the subject (and is especially good for beginners.)

2. Contact your local brewing club. These clubs usually get together
monthly to exchange brewing information, recipes, and, of course,
homebrew. The American Homebrewing Association can probably give 
you the name of the club nearest you (and can also give you the name 
of any nearby brewing supply stores.)

        A.H.A.
        Boulder, CO 80306
        (303) 447-0816

3. Feel free to contact me via e-mail.


And if your first batch doesn't turn out like you expected, 
don't get discouraged. With a little experience, you'll be amazed
at the quality and variety of beers which you can create.


-----

Mike Herbert
tektronix!tekecs!michaelh

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"Relax, don't worry, have a homebrew!"
                              Charlie Papazian