Hello from Virginia

[89vision]

My name's Jamie, and I'm a grad student in Virginia. I haven't actually started brewing yet, but I've been researching a lot about it before I take the plunge. I eventually would like to brew a lot of Abbey style ale, though I know that's likely a ways off until I get some experience under my belt.

If anyone would like to give me some advice before I start, it would be greatly appreciated. I've read up a lot online, most notably "How to Brew" by John Palmer. Though its very informative, its a bit overwhelming. This seems to be a complicated hobby.

I'll probably start buying my gear in the next couple of weeks, and I'm planning on brewing a brown ale to start off.

So hey everyone.

 

[GoldMiner]

Welcome.

Don't feel overwhelmed, it's much easier than it sounds.

Check out some of the home brewing videos on YouTube to see brewing in action.

Most importantly, have fun.

 

[DragonTail]

Welcome

 

[BadgerBrewer]

Hey there! I highly recommend reading the various posts on this website! you can pick up tons of information on techniques, DIY projects, recipes, and other incredible things. before long you will be an old pro!

Welcome!:fro:

 

[mosquitocontrol]

Welcome. Its definitely overwhelming at first but don't make that stop you. I think I started research in Mar-08 and didn't brew my first batch until Oct-08! Definitely wish I had jumped right in. Like most things, there's only so much that can soak in by reading. Once you start DOING the steps you become more comfortable and able to adapt your process more through what you read. So jump in!

 

[89vision]

Thanks everyone.

 

[eeebigeee]

what part of VA? There are pretty active homebrew clubs locally in just about each area of the state. I highly recommend finding one for a couple of reasons. You can check out other peoples delicious homebrew, plus find brewing buddies/mentors.

Tons of great info and recipes here too Welcome!

 

[89vision]

I'll be in Radford, near VA Tech.. not a great area for beer.

I'll have to look into finding other brewers in the area, or even just others interested in craft beers. Thanks again.

 

[spin02]

I'll be in Radford, near VA Tech.. not a great area for beer.

I'll have to look into finding other brewers in the area, or even just others interested in craft beers. Thanks again.

Be sure to check out the Vintage Cellar in Blacksburg. They have an unblievable selection of imported on craft brews.

 

[eeebigeee]

Radford is close enough to plenty of good breweries and bars...

be sure to check out the NRV Brewer's Guild. While the website is a little outdated, the mailing list is still active and they meet regularly. http://hbd.org/nrvbg/

 

[89vision]

Thanks for the link eeebigeee. I'll have to make sure to check that out. Vintage Cellar seems to have a good selection, and there seems to be a better selection of bars/pubs in the area than I thought. I also ran across The River Company in Radford, but haven't had the chance to try them out.

I'm definitely looking forward to the move more now, and once I do, I'll finally start brewing. Thanks again everyone

 

[earthboundagain]

welcome welcome

 

[KevinW]

Home brewing is as simple as following a recipe. As long as you have some of the basics all you really need to consider is space available for bewing and storage and of course money! Lots of great members here to ask questions from.
You will be a master in no time!!
Good luck and welcome to HBT