planetscott
Well-Known Member
Thinking back on my first beers, I kind of chuckle at the quality. I look back over the years and think, what 3 things have I done since I first started brewing to now that has improved the quality of my beer.
1) Join a home brew club. You spend time with like minded people who are honest and can provide feedback. The first best thing someone told me about my beer was the truth and that there was something wrong. My non brewing friends could never do that. Further, someone in the club is always brewing and more than happy to have you over to watch and help.
2) Enter competitions. This is the best way to get true honest feedback. The judges are not concerned about hurting your feelings as they have no idea who's beer they are judging. Most will give positive feedback, even if it is a less than good beer. Not all judging is equal, nor all judges good at it. I have found for the most part, they are are consistent. If you score low on a beer that you feel is good, enter it in another competition.
3) All grain. Doing all grain batches allows me to fine tune recipes and brew unique styles. Everyone brews an IPA or an APA. Try brewing an American Rye , or a Flanders with extract. It's an equipment commitment, but for me, it is worth it. I could have not moved to all grain as easy had I not the done the above. Join a club and enter beers.
The above three things really made a difference. I'm certain over time, experience would have improved my beers, but not to the extent they are now.
What are your 3 things that improved your beer?
1) Join a home brew club. You spend time with like minded people who are honest and can provide feedback. The first best thing someone told me about my beer was the truth and that there was something wrong. My non brewing friends could never do that. Further, someone in the club is always brewing and more than happy to have you over to watch and help.
2) Enter competitions. This is the best way to get true honest feedback. The judges are not concerned about hurting your feelings as they have no idea who's beer they are judging. Most will give positive feedback, even if it is a less than good beer. Not all judging is equal, nor all judges good at it. I have found for the most part, they are are consistent. If you score low on a beer that you feel is good, enter it in another competition.
3) All grain. Doing all grain batches allows me to fine tune recipes and brew unique styles. Everyone brews an IPA or an APA. Try brewing an American Rye , or a Flanders with extract. It's an equipment commitment, but for me, it is worth it. I could have not moved to all grain as easy had I not the done the above. Join a club and enter beers.
The above three things really made a difference. I'm certain over time, experience would have improved my beers, but not to the extent they are now.
What are your 3 things that improved your beer?