Making my first batch in 18 yrs.

[NicotineRush]

After an 18 yr hiatus, I'm making my first batch. Wort chiller is cooling it down now. I'm using Midwest's Octane IPA kit. Full boil. So far, everything has gone smoothly. I will probably make a bunch of extract kits to get my technique back before moving to AG. (have all the equipment) Sure have missed doing this! The sophistication level has increased dramatically in the past 18! Thanks to everyone on this great forum.
Tom

 

[Beerdrop]

Welcome back to the fold. As one who took an almost 16 year hiatus, I know what you mean regarding what a rush it is to brew again. Wait until you find how software (e.g. Beersmith) will let you create recipes with more more insight that before. Good luck.

 

[BlindLemonLars]

A few years ago I also started brewing again, after a 20 year break. You're not kidding, things have changed a LOT over the past few decades, especially in terms of available ingredients and equipment. The biggest change to me is high-quality dry yeast. Back in the day, all "serious" brewers used liquid, and dry meant a nasty little packet taped to the top of an extract can...often labelled "Beer Yeast" or with just a picture of a mug of beer!

Welcome back to the hobby!

 

[NicotineRush]

Thanks! Hit my OG right on the money. Even with a chiller, it's hard to cool here in Florida. Got a fridge with a controller for fermentation.

 

[KatoBaggins]

And I thought I was long away from brewing with 14 years between batches!

Well, how's coming along? What else have you brewed since the IPA?

 

[david_42]

Yup, lots of new yeasts (including dry lager and wheat yeasts), a greatly expanded range of hops and better malts.

 

[NicotineRush]

Well, the IPA has been in the primary for 2 weeks. Ready to go into the secondary if I can ever get 5 minutes. Recipe calls for oak in the secondary. I'm going to try it but maybe only half the chips as I don't want a whole lot of oak.

Irish Red Ale has been in the fermenter 8 days now. It also calls for oak so I'll use the other half from the IPA recipe.

Brewers Edge II temperature controller seems to be working great.

All grain equipment is now complete and ready for some brewing! Ingredients for 'Centennial Blond' have been acquired. Just need some time.