Brand new here

[Geneticjim]

Hey all. I love beer and going to all the local breweries around here in SW Florida. I am really interested in brewing my own. There is so much info here I don't know where to begin. I am looking at conical fermentation.

 

[Elkobrewer]

Welcome. From Elko Nevada. Best way to begin is to decide extract or all grain then buy a starter kit and read the joy of home brewing. And start making beer.

 

[Ozarks Mountain Brewery]

welcome Geneticjim, what size ??

 

[jcav]

Welcome, this place is a treasure trove of information. Read as much as you can and don't be afraid to ask. Many here will help. Here is a good book to get you started anyway:https://www.amazon.com/dp/0937381888/?tag=skimlinks_replacement-20

John

 

[Geneticjim]

Thanks everyone. I would like to start with all grain. I am looking at about a 7 gallon brew size. I will have to checkout those books.

 

[Sammy86]

Welcome to the community and obsession from CT!

 

[mattywwilson]

Cheers from TX

 

[unionrdr]

Fermenters come in different sizes like 6.5 gallon, 7.9, etc, all the way down to one gallon. Those bigger sizes, however, are to allow head space for a 5 gallon batch. Why? because of the krausen foam produced during fermentation. The majority of kits & recipes are 5 or 6 gallons. Typically 5G.
There are a lot of online supply shops to get everything from. And going all-grain from the start can be a daunting task. It's a lot more involved, so starting with extract will allow you to learn a brewing process at first that works for you.

 

[Sp1d3y]

Welcome as I am from Central Florida.

 

[GHBWNY]

Welcome, this place is a treasure trove of information. Read as much as you can and don't be afraid to ask. Many here will help.

++ on Palmer's book. I am ALWAYS going to it for needed info. Besides coming here, of course. Welcome to the obsession from western NY state!

 

[Geneticjim]

Fermenters come in different sizes like 6.5 gallon, 7.9, etc, all the way down to one gallon. Those bigger sizes, however, are to allow head space for a 5 gallon batch. Why? because of the krausen foam produced during fermentation. The majority of kits & recipes are 5 or 6 gallons. Typically 5G.
There are a lot of online supply shops to get everything from. And going all-grain from the start can be a daunting task. It's a lot more involved, so starting with extract will allow you to learn a brewing process at first that works for you.

Can the equipment used for extract brewing be used for grain only brewing if I want to go that route? I'm assuming yes but I hate to assume things

 

[unionrdr]

Yes. The fermenter doesn't care if you put an all extract batch in it this time, then an all grain or partial mash next time. As for kettles, I'm still using the same 5 gallon stainless steel one I started with doing kit-n-kilo ales for partial mash, partial boil brew in a bag. I'm also beginning to use the brew in a bag method for all grain. Provided the mashes stay @ 8-9lbs or so. BIAB is the cheapest, most efficient way to get into partial mash or all grain. Although for PM or AG, you'll also need a thermometer of some type to measure the temp of the mash & sparge water.

 

[eadavis80]

You will find yourself thinking about your beer way too much, but it's so much fun!

 

[Geneticjim]

Should I just start with an inexpensive starter set with buckets for fermenting?

 

[unionrdr]

That'd work just fine! But make sure the buckets are the type with lid seals. The one's that don't always leaked under the extra pressure of initial fermentation for me.

 

[frettfreak]

Kettle will work for extract or all grain but there is more equipment you need for all grain. HOWEVER, If i were to start all over again and wanted to do it all grain, and still have less equipment, i would start with a BIAB (Brew in a Bag). Its an all grain method that can be done with 1 kettle that acts as your mash tun and boil kettle.

Dont let all grain scare you. I started there and defintely dont regret it. Good luck, and i DEFINITELY agree.... GET PALMERS BOOK!! ITS EXCELLENT!

 

[Geneticjim]

I have the book on order through Amazon. It will be at my door tomorrow

 

[Geneticjim]

I love the book! I found d a local brew shop. It's across the street from my local microbrewery. I think I'm going to pickup the fast fermenter kit they put together. Also my favorite microbrewery said I could come in anytime they are brewing and check it out

 

[jcav]

Glad you like the book! You will learn a lot from that book. Even better when you go to the micro brewery pick their brains. You will be surprised how much info they will share with home brewers! Good luck your on your way!

John

 

[Geneticjim]

Glad you like the book! You will learn a lot from that book. Even better when you go to the micro brewery pick their brains. You will be surprised how much info they will share with home brewers! Good luck your on your way!

John

I just had my first brew experience. It was at a local micro brewery that I go to enjoy beer. I was there most of the day. From weighing the grain to pitching the yeast and cleanup. Awesome owner and he wants me back to help again.

 

[jcav]

I just had my first brew experience. It was at a local micro brewery that I go to enjoy beer. I was there most of the day. From weighing the grain to pitching the yeast and cleanup. Awesome owner and he wants me back to help again.

Wow, that's awesome! You are lucky to have them show you how to brew properly and especially at the beginning of you getting into this hobby. You must have made an impression on them since they want you back. If I was just starting out I would wash their floors for a chance to brew with them and learn! Seriously absorb all you can like a sponge.

Cheers!

John

 

[Geneticjim]

yeah doesnothing that sounds real encourging

I am excited to have the experience. I hope to help again soon!