A Moment of Clarity and a Tribute to Beery Heritage

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EinGutesBier

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After experimenting with the steam beer/California Common style, I came to a realization.

American styles just aren't for me.

That might seem a little contradictory for a US homebrewer to say, but there's some reasoning behind this. Whenever I've brewed an American style, it's usually been an unremarkable experience or result for me. Maybe it's just a boring brew because of a clean-fermenting yeast or just the actual ingredients and techniques that make it. In contrast, whenever I've made a Belgian style ale, as traditionally as I can produce it here in the states, it's something else entirely.

Maybe it's just the sweeter profiles with a slight hop edge, maybe it's the phenols and the esters. Maybe it's the fact that I can ferment warmer without a worry. Most of all, though, I'm pretty sure it's about the final result. Nothing else hits the spot like a quality Belgian. Those yeasts are a gift from God, no doubt. Besides, what other grouping or style can boast a grist bill that has 20-30% sugars? You just can't go wrong with a highly attenuated beer with a little sweetness and a raisiny, rummy undertone.

My Grandfather, who was a full blooded Belgian was a bow maker by trade. He made some of the most beautiful zebra wood bows I've ever seen. When he had died, we cleaned up his shop for the estate auction and found one last remarkably crafted bow in the corner, covered in dust. The only flaw it had was a crack down the middle, from a heavy box dropping on it. In my eyes, it's the last testament to his legacy, and a keepsake that memory to live on, with each of my Belgian brews to serve as a counter-testament to his skill.

With "Brew Like A Monk" as my reference, I intend to focus my time on honing my ability to brew a great Belgian. There's a time and a place for the unsubtle American IPA, a quality American Stout, or even a crisp lawn mower lager. I respect all of those beers and even the ones I never tried, though I may in the future. However, I feel it is my obligation, my duty, to continue the proud Belgian tradition of brewing here on the other side of the ocean in the United States.

Rest in peace, Grandfather. This brew is for you.
 
Rock on :rockin:

Belgians are awesome

Brew what you like and only that

Because that's what I think is the great thing about homebrewing:

If you think that a beer that you made is the best in the world, than it is the best in the world, because you are only brewing for you.:D
 
The best beer in the world is the first one im gonna have on May 11th

Rock on! People with real craftsmanship and pure art like your Grandfathers is something the world is about to lose
 
MikeFlynn74 said:
The best beer in the world is the first one im gonna have on May 11th

Rock on! People with real craftsmanship and pure art like your Grandfathers is something the world is about to lose

That's when you come home?

I'm willing to bet you'll stop for gas in Shannon, Ireland, you need to have a Guinness at the airport bar!!!!!!
 
Right on! Brew your passion!

And, that bow is not the last of your Grandfather's legacy. You are also his legacy, just as you have already seemed to notice.


TL
 
TexLaw said:
Right on! Brew your passion!

And, that bow is not the last of your Grandfather's legacy. You are also his legacy, just as you have already seemed to notice.


TL
Thanks, man. That observation means a lot to me.

That's why my little corner of the house where the magic happens is being called Broken Bow Brewery.
 
Thanks, Revvy. You know, I should post a pic of it once I grab it. My mom is holding onto it for me at the moment.
 
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