[5Madman2]

Outstanding article-good luck in any competition.

I have never competed. Honestly, I'm kind of a throw it all in the boiler, cool it down, and get the yeast pitched kinda guy. If it tastes good, try to do the same next time

I have seen guys in the homebrew shops that make it sound more like molecular chemistry than something done for enjoyment. That just doesn't seem like fun.

From your article it looks like you have struck the righ balance between enjoyment and attention to detail. I can learn from you

[DTogo]

An excellent reminder to set aside the rum and pour myself a cold homebrew this weekend instead!

[knews_hound]

I have my Brother (The Engineer) to thank for that.

I used to brew like you until he shamed me into being a bit more professional.

I have to admit, the results are not only much more repeatable, but generally a much higher quality as well.

The converted Ice Chest for a Mash Tun was a revelation to me.

And whatever you do, get some converted kegs.  The difference between brewing 5 gallons and 10 gallons is about 1/2 hour.

A half hour extra for twice the amount?   Deal.

I have plans for how to convert the kegs without welding if anyone is interested.  Total cost, minus the keg itself is 15 bucks.

Once again, a deal.

Mmmmmmmmm, Beeer



Cheers,

knewshound

Brew Your Own

[Ribeye]

I brew the same way you do.

I take Charlie's advice evertime. Don't get sloppy, but don't worry so much it's not fun. I like the beer I brew and have yet had a bad batch. Keep it clean, use fresh ingredients & tasty water, read up on recipes to experiment with and go to it! I've gone from full mash back to partial mash. It's easier with the kids and I still make great beer.

I don't have the patience to get technical with my IBU's, acid tests, etc....