Taking your brew to the LHBS to sample?

Benny Blanco · 02-08-2008, 06:10 AM

I was thinking of taking my homebrew down to the shop and asking their opinions.

Anyone ever try this? If so, was it worth it?

FlyGuy · 02-08-2008, 06:59 AM

If you worked there, would you turn down beer and a chance to help a customer who will probably shop while they are there? If you trust their judgment, do it. I know other people here on HBT have done it.

EvilTOJ · 02-08-2008, 07:41 AM

I don't do it, but people do that at my LHBS all the time. It's nice to try when you think something is 'off' about a beer but not quite sure what it is.

**shafferpilot** · 02-08-2008, 09:54 AM

Be confident in the brew first, 'cause you're likely to be told 15 different things that you should change.............. all of which are probably wrong

**capcrnch** · 02-08-2008, 11:06 AM

I do it all the time.

I'm at my LHBS at least every other week, if not to buy something, just to nose around...
The owner is very down to Earth, a really nice guy, someone who just loves the hobby, loves what he does and loves to help other brewers... So if my bringing him a beer to share with his employee or others that might be in the shop (usually just people he knows) then it's the least I can do to show my appreciation.

I've been in the shop before when someone has brought in a "sample" and he has always poured me a cup. When I first started brewing, I remember thinking "one day, I want to be the guy that brings in a beer for others to sample"...

Now I am that guy.

EinGutesBier · 02-08-2008, 11:23 AM

I bring my homebrew into the local microbrewery I work for. The only downside is that my stuff is Belgian style 99% of the time and he specializes in German and English styles. Either my stuff is good or he doesn't want to hurt my feelings. I mean, I did ask for some real criticism!

Professor Frink · 02-08-2008, 11:49 AM

I do it all the time. I regularly bring in beer and share recipes with the people who work there. I'm going to bring in some of my baltic porter today

EinGutesBier · 02-08-2008, 12:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Professor Frink

I do it all the time. I regularly bring in beer and share recipes with the people who work there. I'm going to bring in some of my baltic porter today

I'd be happy to offer my opinion and analysis.

**AnOldUR** · 02-08-2008, 12:59 PM

That’s an interesting concept for a job (or do people already do this?) Set up a drop off or mailing address for beer to be judged. I’d pay a fee for a unbiased opinion of my beer. Time for a HBT search to see if this is around.

Benny Blanco · 02-08-2008, 04:45 PM

I think I'll give it a try. Though, the people in my HBS don't sound as friendly as the people you guys seem to know. I think they are more concerned with your purchasing from them instead of what you make with their products.

Guess it's worth a shot.

So, how many of you take your beer down to the local brewery to get opinions? I'd probably get better advice.