Spreading wings

[Redpiper]

After some Mr Beer batches, then learning to batch prime, use hydrometer, use DME, boil hops, and steep grains, I think I'm ready to move on.

I still like the small MB keg size for stronger brews, but plan to get a 6 gallon bucket for bigger batches of the stuff guests drink (think I'll make a Red Trolley clone I found by searching this site).

Great info. here - thanks. I still have a lot to read. But, it sounds like I can ferment for 3 weeks in the bucket (as well as in the MB keg) with no problem - in fact maybe get better results. Also, secondary is not necessary - even for my Russian stout! Going to move to Star San as well.

And, +1 a local LHBS just opened in my hometown this week.

Not writing with a question exactly, but do appreciate any feedback especially from those of you who are still brewing MB size batches, but creating your own recipes instead of just pouring from a can. I guess we're sort of "tweeners" between the carboy/keggers and the kit brewers!

 

[android]

despite the size batch you brew, make sure you pitch the right amount of good, healthy yeast. good move using starsan, it will ease your mind and is super easy to use. and definitely keep reading about brewing; beside this site, it's the best thing you can do for your beer education!

 

[doulovebeef]

another person brewing thanks to Mr. Beer. for being such a hated product, it sure turns alot of peeps onto brewing. im one of them, lol

 

[frazier]

Me too. I started with Mr Beer, did one kit batch and then started scaling recipes I found here to MB size. It worked great, I learned the process, and made some good beers. After about 4 batches I moved up to 5 gallons. I still use the little keg for experimental batches.