Ok, I have been through 2 "practice batches", the first was a european style light lager. I am not usually a fan of this particular variety, but figured it would be a wonderful starter. The second was an Octoberfest, more my style, and a batch I am really looking forward to. I'll note that these were both from kits purchased from a brew shop. I will also note, I am a complete noob.
I have had a few problems congruent with both batches that I am curious about:
1. The FG is not where it should be, meaning the alcohol content is lower than what is stated in the kit. What does a guy do to fix this problem? I imagine a well versed brewer would tweak recipes or kits to his liking, but as I stated, I'm a noob, and have followed the recipes to the letter.
2. I have had two bottles of the octoberfest, once 2 weeks after bottling and one the other night, which was a month after bottling. There is certainly a big difference in taste, carbonation and overall satisfaction. However, as was the case with the first batch, there is a slight, raw alcohol aftertaste that I am not accustomed to in store bought beer. I'm curious as to what this is and how to get rid of it, it's nasty!
3. The clarity is not there. I two stage ferment, but have not been able to produce even a relatively clear beer so far. Is it something that comes with time in the bottle? Or have I been too rough with the secondary prior to bottling?
The second question is by far the most important for me. I'm going to try a kit for Hop Head Double IPA tomorrow, and will be pretty bummed if I screw this up. So any all suggestions, tips, do's and don'ts are welcomed and appreciated!
Thanks guys and gals!
I have had a few problems congruent with both batches that I am curious about:
1. The FG is not where it should be, meaning the alcohol content is lower than what is stated in the kit. What does a guy do to fix this problem? I imagine a well versed brewer would tweak recipes or kits to his liking, but as I stated, I'm a noob, and have followed the recipes to the letter.
2. I have had two bottles of the octoberfest, once 2 weeks after bottling and one the other night, which was a month after bottling. There is certainly a big difference in taste, carbonation and overall satisfaction. However, as was the case with the first batch, there is a slight, raw alcohol aftertaste that I am not accustomed to in store bought beer. I'm curious as to what this is and how to get rid of it, it's nasty!
3. The clarity is not there. I two stage ferment, but have not been able to produce even a relatively clear beer so far. Is it something that comes with time in the bottle? Or have I been too rough with the secondary prior to bottling?
The second question is by far the most important for me. I'm going to try a kit for Hop Head Double IPA tomorrow, and will be pretty bummed if I screw this up. So any all suggestions, tips, do's and don'ts are welcomed and appreciated!
Thanks guys and gals!