OK, this will be my first brew if all goes according to plan! I should be buying the carboys tonight!
I also plan on calling the orchard, telling them I'm allergic to potassium sorbate to see if they have alternatives available since you say its a no-go.. Either way I want to go with a local orchard's products.
As far as a first brew, I was pointed to this forum from another forum - sounds like this is a good "first" - and I plan on getting a 2nd carboy JUST for this to let it sit for weeks while also getting an extract beer kit. Good idea?
Sounds like my basement is ideal for fermenting? Very constant temps - normally around 65*F - give or take. It only varies by season, not day-to-day (deep basement, tall ceiling, no exposure). I even have a room that has a concrete ceiling too...