Just drank the first bottle of my first AG batch

All I can say is, "wow!"

My all-columbus APA is without a doubt the best beer I've ever brewed.

The Columbus flavor and aroma are a little intense right now--they'll probably mellow a bit (it's only been carbonating 8 days), but I might consider cutting the columbus with something a little softer--maybe willamette--in the flavor/aroma additions next time I try this.

But I'm thrilled: clarity and color are fantastic, nice hint of maltiness under the hops.

I bottled my second AG batch--a wit--just now. My only concern after tasting it is that it tastes a bit BMC-ish, but I'm sure it will have more character after bottle conditioning. The color (extremely pale, slightly grayish and cloudy--a lot like Hoegaarden) would be pretty-much impossible to achieve w/ extract.

I'm definitely hooked--the downside is that it's hard to find time for brewing AG batches.

Congrats! You are officially converted.

cweston said:

I bottled my second AG batch--a wit--just now. My only concern after tasting it is that it tastes a bit BMC-ish, but I'm sure it will have more character after bottle conditioning.

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I've noticed that with some APA's I've done during racking...fortunately none of that character was apparent in the final product.

... BMC-ish?

BMC = BudMillerCoors

Funny you should say that - thats exactly how I would describe my first extract hefe. Its really quite light, but refreshing.

The first thing I noticed to was the clarity of the beer. My first attempt was good but a little light on flavor. The last 2 have been better due to better temperature control. I ordered a mill for the next batch so I am curious as to how that will help with efficiency.

BMC-ish - Now thats funny. I just bottled a very light in color Pils last night that I could say that about to. I told my wife that maybe my Bud drinking relatives might like this one. Hopefully a little more character will come out with aging for my sake though. I cant drink the mass produced beers anymore. Except Sam Adams, Guiness and Molson.

Dan