Recent content by Catalina

I understand I am supposed to wait 7-14 days after adding sugar, carbonation and bottling before I can drink. But how do I know, in that 7-14 days, that the beers are ready? And, if they aren't ready, how can I tell?

Thanks for the encouragement!

LOL cute sloshy post janivar

It sounds like moderation is the key. I, like most of the posters so far, think both flavor and buzz are important. Luckily, it takes me a few, so I get to enjoy plenty of flavor before the buzz hits me. But there is never a need (for me) to go to Bud to just get drunk - plus it would take me...

Hiyas all, My name is Catalina and I'm a new homebrewer from California. I've been enjoying this forum for awhile now as I have been brewing my first batch. I'm a big fan of hefeweizens, bocks, belgian ales, and most any beer that is sweet and malty. I enjoy occasional stouts, porters...

it sounded really good, especially the chocolate part - I love the Franziskaner Dunkelweizen - but then the pepper part turned me off. But I'll definitely try it if I find any.

I saw that Paulaner Salvador recently but got the Paulaner Doppelbock instead - which I adore! I'm not a huge stout girl, but that Rasputin's is pretty amazing!

Thank you for all your encouragement! I noticed you were unanimous. And thanks, ajf, for pointing out I'll need more bottles. I hadn't thought of that. Guess I better find some more and drink them empty - poor me!

do you folks recommend starting my second batch without knowing how my first turned out? Obviously, the big pro argument is that I'll get more beers faster. The big con is that I might still not know what I am doing :(

I'm noticing that as fermentation is taking place, the air is being expelled out of the airlock. Should I refill the airlock with water? (I'd just pour some in) I'm afraid that soon the airlock will have no water at all . . .

With all your support I finally bought a starter kit - wish me luck!

wow you guys have been so helpful! I still feel a bit overwhelmed, but it's not as scary. And I guess you guys are right, it's supposed to be a hobby after all LOL

I'm new to homebrewing. I haven't even bought a kit yet. I have been a big beer girl for a long time yet and want to take my hobby to the next level. But I'm already feeling overwhelmed with all the details. How can I begin in the shallow end and not feel like this is all hopelessly over my...