View Full Version : Bought & Homebrew Beers, Lagers, Porters etc
I have got back in to making my "own" beer over the period of social isolation (and pubs being shut :beer:)
It has been over twenty years since I made any and have been using simple branded tins of extract. The problem has been finding beers which brew well at home (although so far so good:)). It has got me thinking that recommended kits/tips etc could be a useful thread, as I have just been buying on spec.
So:
Woodfords "Nog" - first attempt and brilliant. Dark beer, good head, bitter and toasted malt flavour - will make this again.
Courage "Directors" - fermentation slower, classic beer but the hop flavour a bit too "green" to me if that makes sense (wife likes it though)
St Peters "Cream Stout" - Still conditioning in the bottles, but VERY promising. Bitter finish, chocolate and fine mousse - will make this again.
Festival "Pride of London Porter" - just started, but I have added extra dark spray malt to the recipe so it should come out at about 6%
I have just ordered a Czech pilsner kit and an American IPA for the summer months, will let you know that I think in about a months time!
All the above have been bottle conditioned using a spray malt solution which I made up, so sediment in bottom of bottle (Coopers PET bottles - initial expense, but reusable). I was going to use my old Boots pressure barrel, but the gas injector was buggered, actually finding it is working really well to bottle condition though.
Any recommendations for kits/whatever gratefully received.
Edit - as much as I am enjoying making and drinking my own beer, I really miss the social aspect of going to pub/chatting/playing pétanque (boule) - must get some mates around to sample my beers when the situation allows.
Hi Guy,
:worthless:
Sounds great, but seeing some pics of your home brews would be great! Good idea to start this thread, so it's probably going to be largely up to us two to keep it active, so try and update it regularly.
We have a couple of Polish shops in town, which stock some really interesting Polsh beers and lagers - stuff that you just wouldn't find anywhere else, and when it comes to beer or lager, I prefer 'off the wall' stuff (often craft varieties) to the mainstream offerings found in supermarkets.
For example, I've enjoyed these Polish beers recently (pics taken from the net_:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/BSurpk.jpg
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/UDl115.jpg
The first one is a really deep, hoppy and refreshing, quality lager, and the other more a yeasty beer/IPA type, with more bitterness, but still smooth and creamy. Both are highly recommended if you can find them.
Another I enjoyed this evening, which I picked up in Lidl (£1.25 a can), called West End Pils, from By the Horns brewing company in Wandsworth, London (again pics taken from the net):
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/922/Fl67sv.jpg
More info here (check it out as they have some nice stuff): https://bythehorns.co.uk/2020/02/15/west-end-pils/
That was also very nice. Pale, quite creamy with slightly zingy, lemony tones and bitter finish. Definitely recommended! I know you prefer darker, more 'chocolatey' beers, but I tend to drink those more in the winter:cool:
Marco.
InThe Sticks
14-06-2020, 20:06
I make almost all of the booze i consume, and this pic is usual in my cottage.
Ale, cider and lager..
https://i.imgur.com/alpa22L.jpg
A friend bought me a Wilko winter ale kit and tbh its fantastic and ready to drink within a month. I didn’t use the spices.
I don’t bother with finings, so it may look a bit cloudy, but the taste is unaffected.
Pic from a pint i pulled from my King Keg earlier.
https://i.imgur.com/z1j4k5t.jpg
Respect mate, that's top-notch!:thumbsup:
Marco.
Been enjoying an ice-cold one of these today, in the scorchio Wrexham sunshine, purchased from our local Polish shop:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/z0n9rz.jpg
More info here: http://www.browar-amber.pl/en/
Probably one of the best I've had yet - golden, full-bodied, hoppy lurveliness!:barrel:
Marco.
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81%2BimB0w3%2BL._AC_SL1500_.jpg
not home made but ordered some of this for fathers day. not had a beer in years
Wot - you bought it *yourself* for Father's Day? :nono:
Nooooo... You send your daughter the link, and ask HER to buy the beer for YOU! :exactly:
;) Enjoy!
My old man's coming round for his lunch on Sunday, al fresco [having a fairly big 'do'], as it's due to be a scorcher!!:)
Marco.
I used to do full grain brewing. I used to go to Smiles brewery in Bristol with a margarine tub which they filled with their yeast for me. Positively amazing yeast.
The best recipe I ever made was oddly the simplest. Yeast, pale malt, Goldings hops and absolutely NOTHING else at about 5.5 percent.
I rate that as the second best beer I have ever tasted. It was amazing stuff.
Best goes to De Dolle Oerbier. I went to the brewery in Belgium which is how I discovered it. Very hard to buy in this country but it does appear sometimes.
I stopped doing it as it's actually a bit a of an arse to make. And when you loose the odd five gallons due to an infection it's a really serious dis-incentive.
I have thought about doing it again as the kit and choice of ingredients available these days is amazing. I'd want all the best stuff, though. I never brewed for cost reasons, always for best quality, so I'd end up spending a lot of money now I think.
You should go for it again, dude, as with your attention to detail and experience, it could only be a success:)
Btw, how's the new house going?
Marco.
InThe Sticks
16-06-2020, 19:48
And when you loose the odd five gallons due to an infection it's a really serious dis-incentive.
I feel your pain. During earlier lockdown i lost 80 pints of Woodfordes Bure gold.
I moved the fermenters from their usual dark position as i was decorating and only noticed a few hours later that the sun was hitting them through the window.
Result was totally skunked beer and £50 in 2 kits down the drain.
Oh, well, you live and learn :doh:
hot today so one of these is called for... Franziskaner Weissbier premium.
This is a wheat beer
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200625/e23e9bdf02ad8ffba8bbd10b89dbce78.jpg
Nice one. Franziskaner is a classic! Love it, but next time remember to post your beer drinking on the beer thread!:ner:;)
Marco.
Enjoying one of these Craft IPAs, which are available from Lidl (picture taken from the net]:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/FSyOWS.jpg
Aftertastes of caramel and toffee... Gorgeous!:cool:
Marco.
Never quite tastes the same out of the bottle as true cask ale for me !! Looks lovely mind
Yup, I agree, but it's not like there are any pubs open just now.... It was nice:)
Marco.
Bruge Zot
Ice cold [emoji41]https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200630/22c536ef25b1643a08c453f8f57ead78.jpg
StingRay
30-06-2020, 15:07
Enjoying one of these Craft IPAs, which are available from Lidl (picture taken from the net]:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/FSyOWS.jpg
Aftertastes of caramel and toffee... Gorgeous!:cool:
Marco.
Brewed by Shepherd Neame I believe.
StingRay
30-06-2020, 15:09
I used to do full mash brewing, used to get a sack of malt from a local brewery. Yeast used to be from Boots. Hops from homebrew shops, mainly Goldings, Progress and Northern Brewer.
https://i.postimg.cc/fR6xH3mp/IMG-0160.jpg (https://postimages.org/)
Just joined "postimage" so that I can show off my efforts so far :)
The above is Woodfords "Norfolk Nog". My first attempt with home-brew for over twenty years - a two can kit, really easy and surprisingly good.
Unfortunately all drunk now (photo taken end of May)
This one is a Muntons kit : Courage "Directors".
Again a canned kit, but not so much to my taste - perhaps I didn't leave it to mature in the bottle for long enough, as the flavours did tend to mellow and blend together better by the 30th bottle :cool:
https://i.postimg.cc/J04JyjCD/IMG-0166.jpg (https://postimages.org/)
My favourite so far, St Peters brewery "Cream Stout".
Several very happy afternoons after gardening, sitting under my grape vines having a snack and a few pints - I think that I will carry on with this brewing lark. My wife has given the ok for me to go ahead with building a log cabin with electrical supply so that I can get my brewing kit (and push bike repairs out of the house/off the patio).
https://i.postimg.cc/KYSMP6yy/IMG-0202.jpg (https://postimages.org/)
Black Bomber cheddar and a bit of saucisson (the chunky lumps of saucisson are for my dog)
I used to do full mash brewing, used to get a sack of malt from a local brewery. Yeast used to be from Boots. Hops from homebrew shops, mainly Goldings, Progress and Northern Brewer.
I have never had the courage to try full mash brewing - perhaps when I get my log cabin :)
StingRay
01-07-2020, 17:12
I have never had the courage to try full mash brewing - perhaps when I get my log cabin :)
It is quite easy really, just takes a bit longer but it the taste is much better.
I Always did the boiling outside.
Not made homebrew since I was young. I did made wine for a while tho quite successfully. Would quite like to get onto brewing again but I'm not sure I drink enough beer to be worthwhile.
All these efforts look great by way. Top marks
Black Isle Brewing Co. Blonde. 4.5abvhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200704/0a34ac6c10dad820cc8f70683767083c.jpg
Black Isle Brewing Co. Blonde. 4.5abvhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200704/0a34ac6c10dad820cc8f70683767083c.jpg
that ws quite good.. made in highlands too... a little gassy but not bad. ive ordered a few different trappist ones for a bit of fun:lol:
I have not seen that one - looks to be bottle conditioned.
A Leffe Brune today..
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200705/1cc973570d6b85318ab56864446811fa.jpg
Quite nice ice cold.. [emoji23]
Have a dram now.
Bruge Zot.. A nice afternoon although breezy, and not overly warm. Still it as close as I'm getting to sun for now.
A nice beer this
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200707/26b0ec7d89d761a91d5724a8f195b8e6.jpg
Nice one that, mate, as is the Leffe:)
Just enjoying some of this Steam Brew IPA [bought from Lidl]:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/922/7Az8gN.png
Lovely summer drinking... Light, zesty and lemony/citrusy - served ice cold, it slips down beautifully!:barrel:
Marco.
Sounds nice but way to big a can for me I think. I struggle to finish a 330 ml bottle
got a few new beers in today actually..
chimay blue, chimay white, rochefort 10 and orval trappist.. plus some leffe blond
https://www.beerhawk.co.uk/media/catalog/product/optimized/4/8/4820e8d62ce288cac8a7b984f3bf05d1f1596dc6dcecdfdd39 d026557d611b17/chimay-blue_1.png
Nice one that, mate, as is the Leffe:)
Just enjoying some of this Steam Brew IPA [bought from Lidl]:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/922/7Az8gN.png
Lovely summer drinking... Light, zesty and lemony/citrusy - served ice cold, it slips down beautifully!:barrel:
Marco.
youve a nice collection of glasses.. harder to find in uk those quality ones
Leffe blond.
Not bad.. Not too gassy, but good flavour https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200709/92d77721867b26c539290ccade126393.jpg
Good stuff, matey... I've just enjoyed some of this [pics taken from my 'home bar']:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/kQg9of.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/cy2I1o.jpg
Very rich and smooth, malty with a touch of dark chocolate... Really lovely stuff!:cool:
More info here: https://www.guldendraak.be/#
Marco.
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/923/XugUas.jpg
More info here: https://www.wrexhamlager.co.uk/?confirm=true
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/923/0YlzwJ.jpg
I've had it often, and it's always been excellent (on draught), simply because it's based on a classic German/Bavarian Pils recipe... It's not your usual British muck, such as Carling!:spew:
We make great BEER (real ale) in the UK, no doubt, but we can't make lager for toffee!:nono:
Wrexham lager, however, is a rather different animal:)
Marco.
It is good, mate. But best appreciated on draught!:)
Marco.
Yeah, but Wrexham lager just doesn't taste the same in bottles... Trust me!:)
Marco.
Unlikely to find it up here. Maybe some supermarkets might sometime
They do a nice gift pack with a glass. I'll send one up for yer Chrimbo!:)
Marco.
Curiously their on-line shop: https://www.wrexhamlager.co.uk/shop/ states the lager is "out of stock". Presumably a casualty of the 'Corona lockdown'.
Where did you drink it on draft Marco?
Curiously their on-line shop: https://www.wrexhamlager.co.uk/shop/ states the lager is "out of stock". Presumably a casualty of the 'Corona lockdown'.
Where did you drink it on draft Marco?A lot of bottled stock is at zero as you rightly say they were closed so not replenishing it.
Been getting harder getting good bottled stuff and prices are higher too.
Curiously their on-line shop: https://www.wrexhamlager.co.uk/shop/ states the lager is "out of stock". Presumably a casualty of the 'Corona lockdown'.
Where did you drink it on draft Marco?
You'll find it in pretty much any pub in the county of Wrexham, mate, including the one we usually go to just down from my house!:D;)
But yes, stocks will be low or non-existent at the moment until pubs in Wales open properly again [inside and out] on Aug 3rd.
Marco.
Chimay Blue.
Trappist beerhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200711/7a77ee2e1d2440e6fc7e4042965da573.jpg
strong stuff at 9% :eyebrows:
lovely stuff by way...
Leffe Bruin..
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200712/93072f25b61f7b14551ec596d8e22fee.jpg
StingRay
12-07-2020, 17:31
A bottle of Lancaster Bomber, not bad and only £1 from Morrison’s, I prefer Bass but that’s not on offer at the mo.
Deserve a beer after all I've done today.
A Leffe Blond
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200715/c9b9bff29f444fb56e19f455a799e30a.jpg
How about a Leffe Blond and a Rite blonde, on either side?:eyebrows:
Marco.
Leffe bruin
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200716/7e62e84bcd7fe75955b894a1ede82cf5.jpg
Leffe Blond
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200720/e9f010e5c0929721ceec0658c89d4f7b.jpg
Orval Trappist ale
Feels fairly strong but nice flavourhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200722/697a063412df6317ede5141a9eee13bc.jpg
edit..6.2% so fairly strong
I don't know why but a lot of the imported bottled Belgium Abbey ales taste much better in the home country.
I have noted this fact in Brussels and Bruges and I have been to both twice. Once on a ten day brewery tour of both towns.
Yes some beers don't travel well. I enjoyed that one tho I've never been in belgium
I don't know why but a lot of the imported bottled Belgium Abbey ales taste much better in the home country.
I have noted this fact in Brussels and Bruges and I have been to both twice. Once on a ten day brewery tour of both towns.
I think that the same applies with draught beers, but not just down to beers travelling well or not (although that can be a factor). I always enjoy an Adnams beer, particularly Broadside, more when the pub is near the Suffolk coast.
I have romantic thoughts that it is something to do with beer absorbing characteristics of its point of origin?
Edit - also cheap wines in France tasting so much better in France than the crate of the same stuff bought home.
Brugse zothttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200725/603a6bfee41d58b80ec080abd4e4e911.jpg
Leffe blond
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200731/b06baa461d017f4997f564ea61e3da2f.jpg
https://i.postimg.cc/KvY5dCFv/IMG-0011.jpg (https://postimages.org/)
czech pilsner, made at around 6%:
https://www.colchesterhomebrew.co.uk/colchesterhomebrewshop/prod_1874179-Better-Brew-Czech-Pilsner.html
will be doing this one again, although American "grapefruit IPA" nearly ready for bottling and a St Peter's cream stout to follow :)
lovely and clear mate.. well done
Cheers - quite proud of not using any finings, but it does take about three weeks in the bottle to reach that stage.
Late to this thread, but that looks fab, Guy! Looking forward to seeing more of your creations:)
Marco.
Not alcoholic, but I'm rather enjoying this refreshing ginger beer, with some 'bits' in:D....
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/923/l9IytC.jpg
:cool:
Marco.
Yeah mate, love a good ginger minge:doh: sorry, beer!:D
Marco.
Brugse zot.
Got quite warm so have thishttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200814/3910f89b11a2b1ab90e08f00922a8bb6.jpg
Currently enjoying some of this IPA (ice-cold) with the footy:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/JnMaHh.jpg
Lovely and zesty/citrusy flavours - perfect summer drinking!:barrel:
Marco.
InThe Sticks
16-08-2020, 18:13
I got this case of 12 as a present and the craft beers are wonderful, as is the magazine and snack you get with it.
So much so in fact that I’m going to sign up to their beer club.
It’s worth having a nose around their website imo..
https://www.flavourly.com/beer/
https://i.imgur.com/71RRPZJ.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/mUboFWg.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/FH85ypx.jpg
:cool:
Citra Ipahttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200821/380bc1bfe344ff8e9aad70be9a2bb6e2.jpg
Not beer but home-brew:
My grape vine produced quite a few grapes this year. So rather than leaving the grapes for birds and wasps (we seem to have lots of wasps in the village this year), I have decided to have a go at making some wine:
https://i.postimg.cc/CKvWJh5F/IMG-0028.jpg (https://postimg.cc/CZqPxVbt)
close up shows fermentation bubbles just starting (hopefully 2 gallons when it is transferred to demijohns, ultimately about 10% alcohol) - I have cheated and used enough grape concentrate/enhancer for two gallons, I also added sucrose to raise the OG a bit and I mashed up a banana to add to it as I seem to remember something about banana giving home made wines a bit more body :) Pretty much making recipe up as I go along.
https://i.postimg.cc/3xDwGqxf/IMG-0095.jpg (https://postimg.cc/hXcgWpxV)
StingRay
08-09-2020, 16:18
Is it a good year for wine?
Fruit seems to be early this year, just picked a load of damsons. Apples are falling off already.
I think it has been a very good year for fruit. Surprised that you are only just picking Damsons, do they take a long time to ripen? I picked my gages about a month ago.
Side note (drinks related) - I bottled some Gages with Woods Navy rum (nice little drink at Christmas and superb Gage crumble in mind), all looking good. I did another jar, same method in all respects except using "Square Rigger" white rum (been sitting around in the house for years, I think one of my daughters bought it) and the bloody thing started fermenting :scratch:
StingRay
09-09-2020, 19:43
I think it has been a very good year for fruit. Surprised that you are only just picking Damsons, do they take a long time to ripen? I picked my gages about a month ago.
Side note (drinks related) - I bottled some Gages with Woods Navy rum (nice little drink at Christmas and superb Gage crumble in mind), all looking good. I did another jar, same method in all respects except using "Square Rigger" white rum (been sitting around in the house for years, I think one of my daughters bought it) and the bloody thing started fermenting :scratch:
I thought they were early this year, have been ripe some of them for a week or so. Blackberries not really ready yet and most too small.
Brugse zot Belgian lagerhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201006/3dd67843a09173cbe763b6c090829aa2.jpg
not had a beer for some time, and ive lots of it so....;)
wine update:
About a month ago I was watching a late film when I heard a noise in the kitchen. The fermentation had got so vigorous that the must had sprayed all over a freshly painted wall - I was up until about one in the morning clearing up.
Note to self; don't add yeast nutrient to fresh fruit :doh:
Next day (and several after), still going for it:
https://i.postimg.cc/X7MMjQSv/IMG-0096.jpg (https://postimg.cc/w3k4F5BK)
All calm (SG below 1.000) and clearing nicely (smells ok too)
https://i.postimg.cc/WzL9vYFL/IMG-0125.jpg (https://postimg.cc/62cVV0fY)
Home brew " St Peters - cream stout" poured to celebrate getting the grass cut.
This is going to be a staple of my home brewing, I have made a couple of batches since getting back in to home brewing and I have been very satisfied with the results.
(Although my next will be a "Woodfords - Wherry", should be very pleasant for Christmas if I get it started next week).
https://i.postimg.cc/XYq4FjzV/IMG-0132.jpg (https://postimg.cc/hfkkRBnw)
Woodfords Wherry bottled three weeks ago (a touch of honey to prime the beer), very nice brew - the honey comes through very slightly, will post a picture tomorrow in the daylight.
Just transferred a batch of St Peters cream stout from bucket to barrel for clearing before priming and bottling. Looking at all the yeast made me wonder about using it to make a loaf or two as an experiment - will ask on bread thread :)
Pleasant evening spent measuring SG of the stout (ready for bottling/priming tomorrow - should be ready for Christmas); sterilising bottles; transferring a batch of St Peters IPA to barrel for clearing and listening to Cerys Matthews on radio 2 "the blues show". Feeling very chilled :)
Not had a beer for a while..
Leffe Brune
Lots of maltY caramelness in this. think thats what it is anyways. lol
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201211/3628859684e42b3bce236c8176ff1dea.jpg
nice for a relatively cheap beer
Worth a giggle if you fancy a pub tour around Wrexham:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=--Ak4siT8xI&t=127s
Marco.
Interesting how pub styles/decor vary around the country :)
looks quite alien to me - although it's good that "theme pubs" (ie same style all over the place) seems to have died a death.
Lol... 'Alien' in what way?:)
Marco.
I can't quite put my finger on it; things like stags head on wall, football paraphernalia.
I would certainly feel that I was in a different town/county in those pubs - mind you, that is no bad thing.
Ah, I see what you mean.. I don't really drink in Wrexham, so don't know many of the pubs shown. However, if I am in town, I'll take Del here for lunch: https://www.thefatboarwrecsam.co.uk/
Marco.
Just a head's up, chaps... I've just enjoyed this STONKING genuine Belgian Blonde Ale, from Aldi:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/qjMmjd.jpg
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/ggqZVK.jpg
https://groceries.aldi.co.uk/en-GB/p-st-pierre-belgian-blonde-beer-750ml/5410583803274
Really, smooth, creamy and not too bitter. Only 6.2% too, so not too strong. Slips down very nicely indeed and is highly recommended!:cool:
Marco.
"Only 6.2%, so not too strong"!? To my taste, anything over 5% for a beer is too strong (and too sweet).
For a Belgian Abbey beer, mate. That's about as low as you'll get... Some of them go well into double figures!!:eek::drunk:
I don't like those, as they're just too strong - the alcohol drowns the flavour of the beer itself.
Marco.
For a Belgian Abbey beer, mate. That's about as low as you'll get... Some of them go well into double figures!!:eek::drunk:
I don't like those, as they're just too strong - the alcohol drowns the flavour of the beer itself.
Marco.
yeah if im drinking beer its usualy abbey stuff. 6.5/8 is fine and as they are well made it doesnt overpower it
Defo... Overall though, I prefer Pils (lager)-style beers, as they're lighter and more refreshing.
However, if Angela goes to Aldi, ask her to get you a bottle of the St Pierre. I think you'd love it, as you like Leffe, and for me this is a level above:)
Marco.
Defo... Overall though, I prefer Pils (lager)-style beers, as they're lighter and more refreshing.
However, if Angela goes to Aldi, ask her to get you a bottle of the St Pierre. I think you'd love it, as you like Leffe, and for me this is a level above:)
Marco.
she does sometimes..
Cool, then ask her to get you some next time she's there:)
Marco.
I like Leffe (which at 6.6% somewhat exceeds my ABV limit) and I also like Duval, which at 8.5% definitely exceeds my limit; though a couple spread over an evening is, for me, just about managable.
Perfect - get home from excellent morning in Bury St Edmunds and have a chilled St Peters "Honey Porter".
I was worried about the honey flavour being dominant when I first bottled it, but three weeks in the bottle and it has turned in to a well balanced flavour :cool:
https://i.postimg.cc/Znjrpy5n/IMG-0386.jpg (https://postimg.cc/jnwwr2NY)
Perfect - get home from excellent morning in Bury St Edmunds and have a chilled St Peters "Honey Porter".
I was worried about the honey flavour being dominant when I first bottled it, but three weeks in the bottle and it has turned in to a well balanced flavour :cool:
https://i.postimg.cc/Znjrpy5n/IMG-0386.jpg (https://postimg.cc/jnwwr2NY)
looks like a good pint guy.. nice light, clean head
Cheers Grant - I highly recommend the "St Peters" range of kits. About £20 for 36 pints (once you have fermentation vessel and bottles, which can be reused), absolute bargain in my view.
Favourite so far is their cream stout.
Love the fact that you make your own ales, Guy (respect for that), but do you make any blonde ones/IPAs? I'm not really a dark ale or stout kinda guy:)
Marco.
Cheers Marco - I have a couple maturing as we speak :)
I have gone a bit experimental with "dry hopping".
I have a Morgans "golden Saaz pilsner" - a few reviews have said that it needs a bit more flavour, so I added 50g of Saaz hops to the vessel after about four days fermentation, idea being that the hop scent/essence won't be carried out of the beer by the vigorous CO2 production earlier on.
Also have an American pale which I have dry hopped with 50g of Cascade hops - in the hope of producing a sort of "Shipyard"/"Proper job" style of golden ale.
Will let you know how they come out.
So many little experiments to try out, could turn in to a life long hobby :):cool:
alas being a bit gluten intollerent i rarely indulge now. whisky is ok tho;)
Love the fact that you make your own ales, Guy (respect for that), but do you make any blonde ones/IPAs? I'm not really a dark ale or stout kinda guy:)
Marco.
OK, you persuaded me:)
A little early, it could do with another week or two in the bottle. Golden Saaz Pilsner (apparently Stella uses Saaz hops) - tastes good, just a little cloud at the moment.
https://i.postimg.cc/vTXzxJpw/IMG-0390.jpg (https://postimg.cc/JHDJ92rp)open right now near me (https://gasstation-nearme.com/open-24-hours)
alas being a bit gluten intollerent i rarely indulge now. whisky is ok tho;)
Good friend of ours is gluten intolerant, but loves beer, so I am planning to make a gluten free beer and inviting her over before the end of summer.
Good friend of ours is gluten intolerant, but loves beer, so I am planning to make a gluten free beer and inviting her over before the end of summer.Interesting to see how it works out
Golden Saaz Pilsner, still not quite cleared - either a result of warm conditions in log cabin or dry hopping :scratch: but tasting good.
Very pleased, I asked Fliss to try a bit and she said "That is good, is it a Pilsner?" - Result! I didn't have to tell her :champagne:
https://i.postimg.cc/KYftRVz2/IMG-0447.jpg (https://postimg.cc/Z99WQwp7)
Late to this, Guy... However that looks good to me. Home brews don't need to be crystal clear, as bit of cloud is part of the charm, unless you're entering a competition. The important thing is FLAVOUR - and that looks packed with it! Nice one:cool:
Marco.
Golden Saaz Pilsner, still not quite cleared - either a result of warm conditions in log cabin or dry hopping :scratch: but tasting good.
Very pleased, I asked Fliss to try a bit and she said "That is good, is it a Pilsner?" - Result! I didn't have to tell her :champagne:
https://i.postimg.cc/KYftRVz2/IMG-0447.jpg (https://postimg.cc/Z99WQwp7)
quite dark for pilsner; maybe the hops.. looks lovely tho. well done
quite dark for pilsner; maybe the hops.. looks lovely tho. well done
Well spotted - I used a medium spray malt; current Pils (ready in about a month) I have used extra light spray malt. Spray malts give a better body and head to the brew than just using sugar :cool:
Top job anyway mate. Didn't make a lot of beer in day. Mostly wine.
my bro made beer mostly tho, but trad stuff
Just started a winter/Christmas "special" - I am getting a bit cocky with my results so far, so starting to experiment a bit.
My brother in law had a glut of plums this year, so I stoned and boiled about 4lbs then strained the resulting liquor in to a "Simply" stout kit along with 1.5kg "Morgans" dark roasted malt. Made up to 23litres with boiled tap water (hopefully to flash off any chlorine) and left to cool overnight.
Measured the OG this morning before casting the yeast and had a bit of a shock - if the brew ferments down well, I should be looking at 6.5/7.0 % :eek: I hadn't really expected to get get much sugar from the plums.
The brew smells delightful though, looking forward to having a few mates around for a Christmas beer sampling session:)
Photos to follow.
Just double checked calculation with an online app: OG 1056, if Final gravity is 1010 then 6% - not quite so frightening :lol:
Just started a winter/Christmas "special" - I am getting a bit cocky with my results so far, so starting to experiment a bit.
My brother in law had a glut of plums this year, so I stoned and boiled about 4lbs then strained the resulting liquor in to a "Simply" stout kit along with 1.5kg "Morgans" dark roasted malt. Made up to 23litres with boiled tap water (hopefully to flash off any chlorine) and left to cool overnight.
Measured the OG this morning before casting the yeast and had a bit of a shock - if the brew ferments down well, I should be looking at 6.5/7.0 % :eek: I hadn't really expected to get get much sugar from the plums.
The brew smells delightful though, looking forward to having a few mates around for a Christmas beer sampling session:)
Photos to follow.
Just double checked calculation with an online app: OG 1056, if Final gravity is 1010 then 6% - not quite so frightening :lol:
sounds delightful. plums make great wine so no reason not to do beer i guess..
sounds delightful. plums make great wine so no reason not to do beer i guess..
I was inspired by "St Peter's" Plum porter (local Suffolk brewery, make some very nice beers and sold in a quite distinctive "flattened" bottle).
The St Peter's has a slightly artificial twang to it, but still a pleasant brew - just wondered whether I could brew one with less of a "twang" (if you know what I mean :))
Trying to brew some lager at the moment. I have not made what I would call a beer which tastes like a "proper lager" before.
Previous attempts have been fine (and very drinkable :)), but didn't have that very clear bright "bite" to them.
Having read up on brewing it seems that i have been fermenting too warm, not a specific lager yeast and not "lagering" (prolonged cold temperature rest on the yeast). Hopefully, I will be able to cover all these requirements with this batch - my log cabin is cold enough at the moment, so may as well make the most of the time of year.
I will update this sometime in spring :cool:
Trying to brew some lager at the moment. I have not made what I would call a beer which tastes like a "proper lager" before.
Previous attempts have been fine (and very drinkable :)), but didn't have that very clear bright "bite" to them.
Having read up on brewing it seems that i have been fermenting too warm, not a specific lager yeast and not "lagering" (prolonged cold temperature rest on the yeast). Hopefully, I will be able to cover all these requirements with this batch - my log cabin is cold enough at the moment, so may as well make the most of the time of year.
I will update this sometime in spring :cool:
how did it go with the lager Guy?
Hi Grant
It has another few days "lagering" - keep at 1/2c for a month is usual, but I am only doing it for a week or so before bottling (making the most of the cold weather :)).
https://beerandbrewing.com/dictionary/rOqc2p417q/
Meanwhile, the plum porter that I made a while back is maturing quite nicely, although it has a bit of the same "twang" that the St Peter's plum porter has - must be some sort of characteristic of the plums (aparently, plums have high levels of Malic acid. I am hoping that longer maturation may take some of the edge off it. may be more to my taste by next Christmas :lol:)
Hi Grant
It has another few days "lagering" - keep at 1/2c for a month is usual, but I am only doing it for a week or so before bottling (making the most of the cold weather :)).
https://beerandbrewing.com/dictionary/rOqc2p417q/
Meanwhile, the plum porter that I made a while back is maturing quite nicely, although it has a bit of the same "twang" that the St Peter's plum porter has - must be some sort of characteristic of the plums (aparently, plums have high levels of Malic acid. I am hoping that longer maturation may take some of the edge off it. may be more to my taste by next Christmas :lol:)
dodnt know that... i know it is in apples tho.
First beer of the year outside (dog poo cleared, first cut of grass, despair at number of scorch marks in the lawn :)).
It's a St Peter's "Golden ale", not a lager but it seems to have benefitted from "lagering". None of that home-brew "twang" and a very good head. Just got to try to keep some (or make some more) for summer.
https://i.postimg.cc/KjRm0YM9/IMG-0860.jpg (https://postimg.cc/D43VZn5s)
Cheese is Ossau Iraty (Basque sheep's milk) with a bit of Tesco multi seeded sour dough - this is the life :)
looks great guy... the Ossau Iraty is one i like too..
That’s goals, right there Guy!
Luckily Syd much prefers to poo on a walk, although today’s challenge was he managed to finally work out how to climb onto the compost heap and started eating rotten vegetables! :doh: I think I managed to stop him in time before he swallowed anything, and it was mainly tomatoes and leaves I pulled out of his mouth, so hopefully nothing nasty like onions... it was at 11:00 this morning and he seems fine tonight so fingers crossed.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Hopefully Syd will be fine, sounds like your going to have to stop putting onions on the heap - once he knows how to get there, he is bound to go back its what dogs do :)
Daphne has a thing about goose droppings at the reservoir, lots available at the moment :drool:
Hopefully Syd will be fine, sounds like your going to have to stop putting onions on the heap - once he knows how to get there, he is bound to go back its what dogs do :)
Daphne has a thing about goose droppings at the reservoir, lots available at the moment :drool:
Yes, no more onions, although I have barricaded it for now, much to his indignation! Syd’s not tried goose 5h!t, but I am sure he would find it a delicacy based on his appetite for rabbit poo!
thats called coprophagia and quite popular in dogs; especially female and neutered males. can make them ill etc tho
And now for something different -
https://www.devonhampers.com/image/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJpbWFnZXMtZGV2b25oYW1wZXJzIiwia2V5Ij oiZGV2b25oYW1wZVwvbGl2ZVwvcHJvZHVjdHNcLzU2NV9kb29t IDEuanBnIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjoiNT U1IiwiaGVpZ2h0IjoiNTU1IiwiZml0IjoiY29udGFpbiIsImJh Y2tncm91bmQiOnsiciI6MjU1LCJnIjoyNTUsImIiOjI1NSwiYW xwaGEiOjF9LCJ3aXRob3V0RW5sYXJnZW1lbnQiOnRydWV9LCJq cGVnIjp7InF1YWxpdHkiOjkwfX19
Just tried some of this:
https://www.perfectdraft.com/en-gb/camden
https://jtdtcwvg.tinifycdn.com/media/catalog/product/cache/57016e64bb9fc84319043b9d1ea53342/c/a/camden-pale-philips-bundle.png
It's very good. 4% ABV
Just tried some of this:
https://www.perfectdraft.com/en-gb/camden
https://jtdtcwvg.tinifycdn.com/media/catalog/product/cache/57016e64bb9fc84319043b9d1ea53342/c/a/camden-pale-philips-bundle.png
It's very good. 4% ABV
my son in law has a machine like that but may be slightly different. he likes a lot and can get various brews for it. not cheap but pretty good stuff. certainly cheaper than a pub
Actually it was the draught Camden Pale Ale I wanted to show; it was served in a local pub. The price of beer in London is now getting silly - up to £8 a pint!
Actually it was the draught Camden Pale Ale I wanted to show; it was served in a local pub. The price of beer in London is now getting silly - up to £8 a pint!Not been in a pub in many years. No idea prices now but they won't be selling much at that price outside of London
Actually it was the draught Camden Pale Ale I wanted to show; it was served in a local pub. The price of beer in London is now getting silly - up to £8 a pint!
What !
I am lucky enough to live in Suffolk - local (excellent “beer house” various ales) up to £3.40 per pint.
https://www.wheatsheaftattingstone.com/
I live in Essex, and the price of beer is similar to what you pay for yours.
It is only in London where the prices are silly; but prices are going up everywhere. No wonder people are buying beer in supermarkets and drinking at home.
Mikeandvan
22-08-2023, 20:05
Had an amazing cask beer the other day in some pub, can't remember what's its called, sorry, I really enjoyed it though.
Had an amazing cask beer the other day in some pub, can't remember what's its called, sorry, I really enjoyed it though.
Bit of a 'non post' there with that one! :doh:
Bottle of bud. Head just disappeared sadly.
Be better with draft I guess.
Not had a beer for ages
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230921/ea26e063f542174f303f4cb2f6870aef.jpg
rmcin626
21-09-2023, 16:16
Bottle of bud. Head just disappeared sadly.
Be better with draft I guess.
Not had a beer for ages
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230921/ea26e063f542174f303f4cb2f6870aef.jpg
Enjoy mate
Is it genuine Czech Budweiser, or the inferior brew that comes out of Milwaukee?
Is it genuine Czech Budweiser, or the inferior brew that comes out of Milwaukee?
worse than that uk. it was nowt to write home about
It annoys me when “continental” beers are made in UK.
OK for reducing “air miles” and i suppose that brewers are careful about “adapting”/dosing water to match originator and using same yeast, but it just doesn’t seem right to me.
What about Guinness brewed in Nigeria?
It annoys me when “continental” beers are made in UK.
OK for reducing “air miles” and i suppose that brewers are careful about “adapting”/dosing water to match originator and using same yeast, but it just doesn’t seem right to me.
its like making scotch in france or belgium. just doesnt make it lol
the lack of head may suggest it wasnt made right too. it seemed to have co2 but it just went like lemonade
walpurgis
22-09-2023, 09:31
It annoys me when “continental” beers are made in UK.
OK for reducing “air miles” and i suppose that brewers are careful about “adapting”/dosing water to match originator and using same yeast, but it just doesn’t seem right to me.
I've never found 'foreign' branded beers brewed in the UK taste right. Somehow they muck it up in translation, probably penny pinching and not using proper original ingredients.
Stella unfiltered.
Much betterhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230922/675cb3b983f3e3f2cba24bf8408002eb.jpg
rmcin626
22-09-2023, 16:44
Stella unfiltered.
Much betterhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230922/675cb3b983f3e3f2cba24bf8408002eb.jpg
Never been a fan of Stella, gives me a headache
Never been a fan of Stella, gives me a headache
i like stella; maybe not to have a session with but one or 2 is nice. this unfiltered is a step up on the standard fare
enjoyed that. will get more of that unfiltered. time for a dram before i have to lie down...:doh: maybe 2:eyebrows:
rmcin626
22-09-2023, 17:52
enjoyed that. will get more of that unfiltered. time for a dram before i have to lie down...:doh: maybe 2:eyebrows:
Too be honest don’t drink beer that often , would rather have a dram
What about Guinness brewed in Nigeria?
I understand that it is a different brew to that produced in Ireland or England - more hops and higher alcohol content, so will taste quite different.
Mind you i remember drinking Guinness in Dublin many years ago (went to see U2, Simpleminds, Eurythmics etc at Phoenix park 1983) and far preferred the Dublin brewed version to the UK one. Someone told me that it was smoother because it was brewed in Oak, others have said that is bollocks - never mind, it was definitely better :cool:
I understand that it is a different brew to that produced in Ireland or England - more hops and higher alcohol content, so will taste quite different.
Mind you i remember drinking Guinness in Dublin many years ago (went to see U2, Simpleminds, Eurythmics etc at Phoenix park 1983) and far preferred the Dublin brewed version to the UK one. Someone told me that it was smoother because it was brewed in Oak, others have said that is bollocks - never mind, it was definitely better :cool:
My partner is African, so is used to the stronger Guinness brewed in Nigeria. Guinness does not travel well, which is why it is brewed in other locals.
When in this country (the UK), she will always prefer the bottled Guinness brewed in Africa over locally brewed versions.
I believe the different taste is more down to the water used rather than anything else.
I wish I liked Guinness: it's a lovely looking pint, but I find it too dry for my taste. Pity!
A tyskie tonight, polish
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230924/47990a24266a2824a15779c6179d3b70.jpg
Thank goodness it's not Jupiler! Awful stuff.
Thank goodness it's not Jupiler! Awful stuff.
highly rated in belgium apparently. ive got the glass but not the lager:D
rmcin626
25-09-2023, 09:57
highly rated in belgium apparently. ive got the glass but not the lager:D
Visited the brewery many years ago
Visited the brewery many years agoSupposed to be the go to beer for Belgians, but dunno if true.
Also believe it's made in same factory as stella
That tyskie was better than I thought it would be. Morrisons lad that delivered it was polish and said it was not bad although not their no one.
rmcin626
25-09-2023, 10:24
Supposed to be the go to beer for Belgians, but dunno if true.
Also believe it's made in same factory as stella
It was about 40 years ago, I was living in Germany at the time and one of the bars I went to sold that Belgian beer for some reason, the brewery was just over the border, after seeing round the brewery it was a free bar, which was a big mistake.
The only time I drank Jupiler was in Paris - and it was the last.
Supposed to be the go to beer for Belgians, but dunno if true.
Also believe it's made in same factory as stella
The only time I have drunk in a Belgian bar, I didn’t see anyone drink Jupiler. Mind you the bar had scores of bottled beers for sale, whereas I think Jupiler is draught.
Paulaner munchner hell.
Rather good thishttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230928/e73422314f588c2c5dd08eabb42bd891.jpg
Schiehallion lager. Made at the Harviestoun brewery made in Alva here in Scotland https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230929/5eeeac58fac735216e083d608f923acc.jpg
Stella unfilteredhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20231005/b84b153aa2c86f876890f6f1023bcb9b.jpg
victoria malaga lager.
not bad
https://www.cervezavictoria.es/sites/default/files/2019-03/img-description.png
Nice head. Creamy, slight sweetness followed by a bit of bitterness.
Very good. I will get morehttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20231008/1460d9534cd5d39a81f5d44dad86439a.jpg
Victoria Malaga. Even got a glass now lolhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20231012/177b7b641e15b5c0fd36e5ae2451ec4c.jpg
a really nice half pint glass to drink from...
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20231012/39912a223a45159f5a0f295c298cecc9.jpg
Where is it brewed Grant?
Where is it brewed Grant?
in spain barry. has a great head and a nice drink all told
Not had a beer for a while so a Victoria Málaga
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20231020/8daceabfaac1dc9112ff986b507f1740.jpg
krombacher pils
decent beer brewed in germanyhttps://digitalcontent.api.tesco.com/v2/media/ghs/514965c2-cfff-4565-a26d-d8fbd10feff4/44d54e57-6408-4807-ac57-e8ad498e2ca7_1492306814.jpeg?h=960&w=960
got this delivered there as a xmas pressie :D
https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/815Tg97K88L._AC_SL1500_.jpg
not opened it yet, but looks like it will be fun.
Stella
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240103/e5010f1c5ab1b94a019b06810dc41d9e.jpg
rmcin626
03-01-2024, 18:15
Stella
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240103/e5010f1c5ab1b94a019b06810dc41d9e.jpg
Enjoy mate, but not for me a beer I have never enjoyed
Enjoy mate, but not for me a beer I have never enjoyed
its ok. not as good as some but its refreshing and has a slight kick too. came with the machine so not complaining too much lol. got a few more in today inc an alc free one to try.
I've been drinking bottled 'London Pride'. Not bad, but tastes a bit bitter in comparison to the draught ale, which I prefer.
London Pride - excellent choice, although I do like hoppy beers
Had a spicy sweet n sour so a bigg glass of Stella needed. excuse mat, it needs a quick wash lol
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240104/3a5130ea2e8aed4f994b2c5367a8a8c6.jpg
A small Stella chaser before bed
Not much left in keg. Next up will be Becks gold I think. It's the made in Germany version unlike the bottleshttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240112/d6edf449514b74408d4a8247f4ce20a6.jpg
rmcin626
12-01-2024, 18:52
A small Stella chaser before bed
Not much left in keg. Next up will be Becks gold I think. It's the made in Germany version unlike the bottleshttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240112/d6edf449514b74408d4a8247f4ce20a6.jpg
Drank a few Becks in my time in Germany
Drank a few Becks in my time in Germany
i bet you did.lol... the gold used to be good, but its been a while. still about a litre in this one.
rmcin626
12-01-2024, 19:16
i bet you did.lol... the gold used to be good, but its been a while. still about a litre in this one.
i enjoyed the beer when I was there, especially as you most folk drank it in smaller measures, 30cl I think from memory, when I came home struggled with pints was always flat by the time I finished it.
Stella. Not much of it lefthttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240115/1b544653fd4439010111322043604a02.jpg
i enjoyed the beer when I was there, especially as you most folk drank it in smaller measures, 30cl I think from memory, when I came home struggled with pints was always flat by the time I finished it.
Interesting - when I visited the Munich Oktoberfest many years ago (which surprisingly is not held in October), all the beer (that is lager) was served in 'steins' which are about a litre in volume; roughly 1 and 3/4 pints. We had no problem drinking such volumes. ;)
rmcin626
15-01-2024, 20:02
Interesting - when I visited the Munich Oktoberfest many years ago (which surprisingly is not held in October), all the beer (that is lager) was served in 'steins' which are about a litre in volume; roughly 1 and 3/4 pints. We had no problem drinking such volumes. ;)
i was in Aachen near Koln and in that part of the country its usually smaller measures, to be honest these days I don’t drink much beer just the odd bottle of something now and then.
Last of barrel. A tad low on gas it was too but drinkable.
New keg fitted but will be a while til it's cold
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240116/c162f9499a834fca3c182dfee37c35d8.jpg
New keg fitted last night. Becks gold.
Took 16 hrs to chill down from room temp
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240117/33e8aa0095d7c2c5d6efeaf87338b89c.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240117/a8358745ee7b0a0c7d8e85cf00177b17.jpg
Becks gold tonight.
Nice drink. A little sweeter than Stella but nice. Not sure I don't prefer Stella tbh. Different tastes tho and I wouldn't refuse this. Been a while but it pours well.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240117/2b480d1d16ffba5508496b26a9920f34.jpg
Corona cero.0.0%
Not bad once your mouth gets used to it https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240127/c8f5b58123cd98624effd63e8bd32356.jpg
I always drink alcohol-free beers if I have to drive. But they never taste the same as proper beer; and I have tried quite a few.
Discovered this in Aldi and thought I would give it a try:
Sainte Etienne, Premium Lager Beer
https://dm.emea.cms.aldi.cx/is/image/aldiprodeu/product/jpg/scaleWidth/500/127aeed1-9614-4dff-bfb5-d63fddd15c70/Premium%20Lager%20Beer%204%20Pack
If you like Continental light lagers that are uncomplicated and easy going, then you will probably like this one. It's inoffensive, and seemingly knowingly middle of the road. It's not trying to reinvent the wheel or offer obscure flavour notes. It's trying to be an average lager and it does that brilliantly.
Brewed specially for Aldi, and intended to rival Stella Artois, it gets surprisingly good reviews:
https://swifthalf.com/reassuringly-surprising-stella-artois-vs-aldis-knock-off-version/
Contrary to above link, the ABV on the Sainte Etienne we bought was 4.6%.
And nearly a year later (!):
Peroni Nastro Azzurro
https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/3G8AAeSwyGJpcgj2/s-l1600.webp
620ml, 5.0% ABV
I always drink alcohol-free beers if I have to drive. But they never taste the same as proper beer; and I have tried quite a few.
My new favourite is Estrella Damm 0.0 - I'd venture to say it's the most beer-like alcohol-free one I have tried, and I have tried quite a few, now!
https://www.mydrybar.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/estrella.webp
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