Bottled Knowledge Articles
567Welcome to a wealth of brewing knowledge! Our new and improved blog has 500+ articles for you to peruse or filter to exactly what you're looking for. Whether you're just starting out or looking to raise your game, we've got you covered with info from experts.
November 04, 2019
Instructions on How to Make Hard Cider
Brewing hard cider from nonalcoholic, or “sweet” cider is a simple process, and the inebriating end product is as delicious as it is discombobulating. Here are the steps you’ll follow to make hard cider of your own. Checklist of Cider Brewing Equipment 5 Gal. Stainless Steel brewing pot L..... Read More
Brewing hard cider from nonalcoholic, or “sweet” cider is a simple process, and the inebriating end product is as d..... Read More
July 01, 2021
How to Fix a Stuck Wine Fermentation
Hydrometer readings for three consecutive days, and the reading remains the same and is higher than 1.000, it's probably stuck. Make sure you have a good airtight seal at your Airlock. Ensure that the airlock is firmly seated in the Bung, and the bung is securely seated in the mouth of the Carbo..... Read More
Hydrometer readings for three consecutive days, and the reading remains the same and is higher than 1.000, it's prob..... Read More
November 28, 2020
How to Use Campden Tablets
Initially, Campden Tablets are used to kill off any potentially harmful bacteria that may may be present in the base ingredients used in winemaking, and to discourage any wild yeast from gaining a foothold. Campden will not kill yeast, but it creates an environment inhospitable to them. As sulfur..... Read More
Initially, Campden Tablets are used to kill off any potentially harmful bacteria that may may be present in the base ..... Read More
April 30, 2020
How to Sweeten Wine
What Can I Use to Sweeten my Wine? So, you have opened the first wine bottle from a new batch, and it's too dry for your liking. It isn’t unusual for a homemade wine to be a little dry because we simply add wine yeast and let it ferment. A winery will take measurements throughout the fermentation..... Read More
What Can I Use to Sweeten my Wine? So, you have opened the first wine bottle from a new batch, and it's too dry for y..... Read More
October 25, 2019
How to Bottle Beer from a Keg
Kegging systems are great, but they are not the most portable. There are a few options for those of us with a keg system who do not want pull it apart just to bring the beer to a friend’s house. Two options are very inexpensive and easy, while one is more money and more time consuming. Your opti..... Read More
Kegging systems are great, but they are not the most portable. There are a few options for those of us with a keg sy..... Read More
October 25, 2019
What if my Fermenting Wine has a Sulfur Smell?
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is the rotten egg odor you smell, and it usually forms at the end of fermentation. Most home winemakers won’t notice a smelly problem until the first racking. If you do smell rotten eggs, the quicker you can act, the better your chances of saving the wine. If your wine is n..... Read More
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is the rotten egg odor you smell, and it usually forms at the end of fermentation. Most home w..... Read More
November 05, 2019
Instructions on How to Grow Hops
Growing hop rhizomes is truly something special. Being able to add an ingredient that you’ve grown yourself is not something that every homebrewer can claim... Read More
Growing hop rhizomes is truly something special. Being able to add an ingredient that you’ve grown yourself is not so..... Read More
February 15, 2022
Our Top 10 Articles on Winemaking, Homebrewing, and Cider Making
Tips, tricks, techniques - everything you’ve wanted to know about beer, wine, and cidermaking are covered in our top 10 most viewed blog articles! Were we a little surprised that only 3 of these are about winemaking? Yes. Were we surprised that the #1 article is not about winemaking or homebrewi..... Read More
Tips, tricks, techniques - everything you’ve wanted to know about beer, wine, and cidermaking are covered in our top..... Read More
August 25, 2020
Oaking Wine with Barrels, Spirals, Cubes, and Chips
Oak adds a compelling complexity to wine. You should make sure the kind of wine you want to make is well suited for oak since it is more expensive and more work. For example, just about any high tannin red wine will benefit. Many whites such as chardonnay or Sauvignon blanc will benefit as well. ..... Read More
Oak adds a compelling complexity to wine. You should make sure the kind of wine you want to make is well suited for o..... Read More
May 04, 2020
How to Make Wine
If you’re looking to make wine, it’s actually quite easy to get started with wine recipe kits. Using wine kits is the best place to start your wine making journey because kits simplify the wine making process from grape to glass. Wine kits allow you to create amazing wine with much less wine ma..... Read More
If you’re looking to make wine, it’s actually quite easy to get started with wine recipe kits. Using wine kits is t..... Read More
November 05, 2019
How to Make Wine From Grapes
Here is a checklist of everything you will need to make wine from grapes: Fresh or Frozen Grapes Acid Testing Kit Tartaric Acid Hydrometer Yeast Yeast Nutrient Wine Cap Punch Down Tool Ratchet Press Floating Thermometer 7.9 Gallon Plastic Fermenter 6 Gallon Carboy w/ a Stopper and Airlock Rackin..... Read More
Here is a checklist of everything you will need to make wine from grapes: Fresh or Frozen Grapes Acid Testing Kit Ta..... Read More
July 25, 2020
How To Make Hard Seltzer
Hard seltzer is hot right now and it’s a breeze to make. Having variety in your cellar is key to keeping everyone happy and a hard seltzer is pretty darn tasty on a hot day... Read More
Hard seltzer is hot right now and it’s a breeze to make. Having variety in your cellar is key to keeping everyone hap..... Read More
December 01, 2020
What is Kombucha?
Some call it a magical probiotic potion. Others just think of it as a tasty fizzy drink. Whatever the reason for drinking it, this ancient recipe is still a solid favorite to millions of people around the world. With a funky name paired with an even tangier flavor, making kombucha at home is ea..... Read More
Some call it a magical probiotic potion. Others just think of it as a tasty fizzy drink. Whatever the reason for dr..... Read More
October 25, 2019
How to Keg and Force Carbonate Your Homebrew
In olden times, beer was stored in wooden casks but now we use aluminum or stainless steel kegs to carbonate, store, and serve our beer. Here are some tips and simple instructions for kegging your beer. Draught beer refers to beer which is stored and served from a keg or cask. A corny keg is e..... Read More
In olden times, beer was stored in wooden casks but now we use aluminum or stainless steel kegs to carbonate, store,..... Read More
October 25, 2019
How to Adjust the pH of a Mash
If the pH of the mash is too low (too acidic) the addition of Calcium Carbonate will work well to raise it. In some cases, especially if you are making a very dark beer such as a Stout or Porter, you may have to settle for a mash pH as low as 5.0, but under no circumstance should you add more tha..... Read More
If the pH of the mash is too low (too acidic) the addition of Calcium Carbonate will work well to raise it. In some c..... Read More
October 25, 2019
How Long is the Fermentation Process?
The time a beer takes to ferment will definitely vary depending on many factors: whether you’re brewing an ale or a lager, what style you’re brewing, the gravity of the brew, and the yeast you’ll be using. The recipe you’re using may have specific instructions on the time you should leave the bee..... Read More
The time a beer takes to ferment will definitely vary depending on many factors: whether you’re brewing an ale or a l..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Splashing
Aerating wine or beer to release carbon dioxide gas, also known as de-gassing... Read More
Aerating wine or beer to release carbon dioxide gas, also known as de-gassing... Read More
October 25, 2019
Spiles
Small, wooden pegs or plugs, used to close vent holes in barrels... Read More
Small, wooden pegs or plugs, used to close vent holes in barrels... Read More
October 25, 2019
Spigot
A faucet used to regulate the flow of liquids from the bunghole of a barrel... Read More
A faucet used to regulate the flow of liquids from the bunghole of a barrel... Read More
October 25, 2019
Specialty Malts
Malts used in lesser quantities in the mash that are usually used to impart flavor/color/aroma. Most specialty grains do not need to be mashed and can be steeped. View all Brewing Grains.. Read More
Malts used in lesser quantities in the mash that are usually used to impart flavor/color/aroma. Most specialty grains..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Sound Wine
Wine with no obvious defect... Read More
Wine with no obvious defect... Read More
October 25, 2019
Slurry
A thin mixture of water and insoluble solids... Read More
A thin mixture of water and insoluble solids... Read More
October 25, 2019
Silica Gel
A hard, glassy substance made from specially processed silica (sand), which contains microscopic pores. Sometimes used as a wine or beer clarification agent; can also be used as a dessicant (moisture absorber), due to its extreme attraction for water... Read More
A hard, glassy substance made from specially processed silica (sand), which contains microscopic pores. Sometimes use..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Scrumpy
Scrumpy is a term used to describe hard ciders made in West Country in England. It can be used in reference to commercial or homemade hard cider. Scrumpy can be dry or sweet, and is generally higher in alcohol. It is usually cloudy, is served still instead of carbonated, and can be rather pulpy... Read More
Scrumpy is a term used to describe hard ciders made in West Country in England. It can be used in reference to commer..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Saccharomyces Cerevisiae
Scientific name for ale yeast. Top fermenting yeast... Read More
Scientific name for ale yeast. Top fermenting yeast... Read More
October 25, 2019
Saccharomyces Carlsbergensis
Scientific name for lager yeast. Bottom fermenting yeast... Read More
Scientific name for lager yeast. Bottom fermenting yeast... Read More
October 25, 2019
Saccharometer
Any devise for measuring the amount of sugar in a solution. A specially calibrated hydrometer... Read More
Any devise for measuring the amount of sugar in a solution. A specially calibrated hydrometer... Read More
October 25, 2019
Russian Imperial Stout
A very strong, dark (nearly black), intensely roasty and malty ale. So named because it supposedly was originally brewed (in England) for export to Russia... Read More
A very strong, dark (nearly black), intensely roasty and malty ale. So named because it supposedly was originally bre..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Roasted Malt
Malt used for coloring purposes... Read More
Malt used for coloring purposes... Read More
October 25, 2019
Respiration
The sum total chemical reactions in living cells which release energy. The aggregate of those processes by which oxygen is introduced into the system and carbon dioxide removed. .. Read More
The sum total chemical reactions in living cells which release energy. The aggregate of those processes by which oxy..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Reinheitsgebot
The Reinheitsgebot (German pronunciation: "Rine-hites-ge-boat", literally "purity order") was an ordinance brought forth by Duke Wilhelm IVan in the city of Ingolstadt in the duchy of Bavaria on April 23, 1516. The ordinance sought to restrict which grains could be used in beer production. The re..... Read More
The Reinheitsgebot (German pronunciation: "Rine-hites-ge-boat", literally "purity order") was an ordinance brought fo..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Rehydration
The process of adding water to dry dormant yeast cells to hydrate the cell walls, and bring the yeast into an active state. Consult yeast manufacturer’s instructions for proper yeast rehydration... Read More
The process of adding water to dry dormant yeast cells to hydrate the cell walls, and bring the yeast into an active ..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Reductive Wines
Wines that are permitted little or no oxygen and are consumed young... Read More
Wines that are permitted little or no oxygen and are consumed young... Read More
October 25, 2019
Raffinose
Trisaccharide composed of one galactose, one glucose and one fructose molecules. Although not a major component of beer wort, raffinose is used to biochemically define lager and ale yeast. Lager yeast completely process raffinose; ale yeast leave a residual G- G sugar, known as melibiose... Read More
Trisaccharide composed of one galactose, one glucose and one fructose molecules. Although not a major component of be..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Rack
Also referred to as "transfer." To move beer from one vessel to another, usually through siphoning... Read More
Also referred to as "transfer." To move beer from one vessel to another, usually through siphoning... Read More
October 25, 2019
Pulp
Crushed fruit or grape solids.. Read More
Crushed fruit or grape solids.. Read More
October 25, 2019
Propagate (yeast)
To be produced or multiplied by generation. To cause to spread, to multiply as by seeds, cuttings, etc... Read More
To be produced or multiplied by generation. To cause to spread, to multiply as by seeds, cuttings, etc... Read More
October 25, 2019
Proof
The alcohol content of beer and wine is normally described in percent by volume. With spirits or distilled products the percentage multiplies by two, i.e., whiskey that is 50% alcohol is 100 proof... Read More
The alcohol content of beer and wine is normally described in percent by volume. With spirits or distilled products t..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Priming
Addition of a fermentable sugar to a finished beer to carbonate the beer in the bottle. Also called bottle conditioning. Corn sugar is a common priming sugar. Use our easy Priming Sugar Calculator for helpful measuring advice... Read More
Addition of a fermentable sugar to a finished beer to carbonate the beer in the bottle. Also called bottle conditioni..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Pressing
Squeezing juice from crushed fruit... Read More
Squeezing juice from crushed fruit... Read More
October 25, 2019
Potassium Sorbate
Stabilizing agent that prevents renewed fermentation in sweetened wine... Read More
Stabilizing agent that prevents renewed fermentation in sweetened wine... Read More
October 25, 2019
Poppet
A small, spring-loaded valve located inside a soda keg fitting. The poppet is what seals the fitting when the hose fitting is removed. Poppets are the most likely source of leaks on older soda kegs; replacements are available from various on-line vendors. Midwest Supplies offers three different p..... Read More
A small, spring-loaded valve located inside a soda keg fitting. The poppet is what seals the fitting when the hose fi..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Points Per Pound Per Gallon (PPG)
The US homebrewers unit for total soluble extract of a malt, based on specific gravity. The unit describes the change in specific gravity (points) per pound of malt, when dissolved in a known volume of water (gallons). Can also be written as gallon*degrees per pound... Read More
The US homebrewers unit for total soluble extract of a malt, based on specific gravity. The unit describes the change..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Plato
A scale for measuring the weight of the wort relative to a weight of a solution of sucrose in water. 12 degrees Plato represents 100 grams of sucrose/water solution of which 12 grams are sucrose. It is said to be more accurate than the Balling scale... Read More
A scale for measuring the weight of the wort relative to a weight of a solution of sucrose in water. 12 degrees Plato..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Pitch
Adding yeast to the cooled wort... Read More
Adding yeast to the cooled wort... Read More
October 25, 2019
Phenols/Phenolic
Off-flavor in most beer styles (except weizens and some Belgian styles) which can manifest themselves as a medicinal/clovey/band-aid type flavor or aroma. High levels of phenols may be caused by contamination or tannins extracted from the grain husks... Read More
Off-flavor in most beer styles (except weizens and some Belgian styles) which can manifest themselves as a medicinal/..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Pasteurization
Exposure of packaged beer to 140°F or 60°C., for one Unit (PU) minute... Read More
Exposure of packaged beer to 140°F or 60°C., for one Unit (PU) minute... Read More
October 25, 2019
Oxidative Wines
Wines that need to absorb small quantities of oxygen during a lengthy aging... Read More
Wines that need to absorb small quantities of oxygen during a lengthy aging... Read More
October 25, 2019
Oxidation
Off-flavor in most beer styles which is caused by the introduction of oxygen to fermented beer. It produces a stale, cardboardy flavor and aroma... Read More
Off-flavor in most beer styles which is caused by the introduction of oxygen to fermented beer. It produces a stale, ..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Original Gravity
The density of the wort before fermentation occurs, abbreviated O.G. Also known as the specific gravity, but usually taken to mean the Balling or Plato degree of the wort leaving the brew kettle... Read More
The density of the wort before fermentation occurs, abbreviated O.G. Also known as the specific gravity, but usually ..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Organic
Basically the chemistry of natural or synthetic carbon compounds with Chemistry carbon combining mainly with O, H, N, S, P... Read More
Basically the chemistry of natural or synthetic carbon compounds with Chemistry carbon combining mainly with O, H, N,..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Ordinary Bitter
A gold to copper colored, low alcohol, low carbonation English-style ale... Read More
A gold to copper colored, low alcohol, low carbonation English-style ale... Read More
October 25, 2019
NHC
National Homebrew Competition. An annual homebrew competition sponsored by the American Homebrewers Association. Brewers submit entries to a first round judging in their geographic area; winners from the first round judging advance to a second round (national) judging... Read More
National Homebrew Competition. An annual homebrew competition sponsored by the American Homebrewers Association. Brew..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Mycoderma
Mycoderma is a spoilage organism. Also known as a mother in vineger... Read More
Mycoderma is a spoilage organism. Also known as a mother in vineger... Read More
October 25, 2019
Must
Raw wine. The mixture of fruit juice, sugar, water and yeast which eventually ferments into wine... Read More
Raw wine. The mixture of fruit juice, sugar, water and yeast which eventually ferments into wine... Read More
October 25, 2019
Mulled Wine
Red wine that has been mixed with sugar, lemon, and spices, usually including cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Served hot... Read More
Red wine that has been mixed with sugar, lemon, and spices, usually including cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Served hot... Read More
October 25, 2019
Micron
0.001 millimeter... Read More
0.001 millimeter... Read More
October 25, 2019
Metabisulphite
Antioxidant and bactericide that releases sulphur dioxide into wine... Read More
Antioxidant and bactericide that releases sulphur dioxide into wine... Read More
October 25, 2019
Mead
An alcoholic beverage produced by the fermentation of honey. For a traditional mead, the honey is mixed with water. In a fruit mead, the honey is mixed with fruit juice. Mead is really more of a wine than a beer, since it does not contain any grain sugars. Mead can be broadly classified based on ..... Read More
An alcoholic beverage produced by the fermentation of honey. For a traditional mead, the honey is mixed with water. I..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Maris Otter
A type of British 2-row malt, prized for its plump kernels and refined flavor. Since Maris Otter does not yield as well as other, newer strains, it is not grown in great quantities; this tends to make it significantly more expensive than "normal 2-row malt. Midwest carries a variety of Maris Otte..... Read More
A type of British 2-row malt, prized for its plump kernels and refined flavor. Since Maris Otter does not yield as we..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Manifold
A device used at the bottom of a lauter tun, to strain the wort from the grain. Manifolds are commonly constructed from pieces of metal or plastic tubing, connected in a flat ring or "H" shape, into which holes or slots have been cut. The tubing is attached to a fitting which passes through the w..... Read More
A device used at the bottom of a lauter tun, to strain the wort from the grain. Manifolds are commonly constructed fr..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Maltose
A crystalline sugar C12H22O11 formed from starch by the action of amylase. It is dextrorotatory and the main source of fermentable extract in brewing... Read More
A crystalline sugar C12H22O11 formed from starch by the action of amylase. It is dextrorotatory and the main source o..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Malting
The process which basically consists of immersing or soaking grains in water until they germinate, then drying and kilning them in a way which develops the needed enzymes in malt for mashing later... Read More
The process which basically consists of immersing or soaking grains in water until they germinate, then drying and ki..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Malt Extract
A condensed/concentrated wort that is used by homebrewers. It is found in either a liquid or dry form. View all Malt Extract... Read More
A condensed/concentrated wort that is used by homebrewers. It is found in either a liquid or dry form. View all Malt ..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Malt
Usually refers to malted barley but is also used to refer to any grain, rye, wheat, or barely, etc, that has gone through the malting process. View Midwest Supplies' entire collection of brewing grains and malt extract... Read More
Usually refers to malted barley but is also used to refer to any grain, rye, wheat, or barely, etc, that has gone thr..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Maibock
Essentially the same thing as Helles Bock. A pale colored Bock beer... Read More
Essentially the same thing as Helles Bock. A pale colored Bock beer... Read More
October 25, 2019
Lysis
Breaking apart of cells... Read More
Breaking apart of cells... Read More
October 25, 2019
Lupulin
The fine, yellow, resinous powder on the strobile of hops... Read More
The fine, yellow, resinous powder on the strobile of hops... Read More
October 25, 2019
Lovibond
Measurement with which malt and beer color is compared against. The higher the lovibond, the darker the color... Read More
Measurement with which malt and beer color is compared against. The higher the lovibond, the darker the color... Read More
October 25, 2019
Liquefaction
As alpha amylase breaks up the branched amylopectin molecules in the mash, the mash becomes less viscous and more fluid; hence the term liquefaction of the mash and alpha amylase being referred to as the liquefying enzyme.. Read More
As alpha amylase breaks up the branched amylopectin molecules in the mash, the mash becomes less viscous and more flu..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Les Garagistes
Is a French term that describes small-scale, progressive winemakers who have very basic facilities but make outstanding wines. The movement started in Bordeaux in the 1980s and has spread worldwide. Les garagistes- winemakers who break all traditions and spurn the idea that one needs millions of ..... Read More
Is a French term that describes small-scale, progressive winemakers who have very basic facilities but make outstandi..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Lees
The sediment that forms over time as small pieces of yeasts and grape skins settle to the bottom of the carboy or barrel. Healthy lees contribute a texture, richness and complexity that define great wine... Read More
The sediment that forms over time as small pieces of yeasts and grape skins settle to the bottom of the carboy or bar..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Leaching
Removal of dissolvable matter from its mixture with an insoluble solid; major part occurring during mashing.. Read More
Removal of dissolvable matter from its mixture with an insoluble solid; major part occurring during mashing.. Read More
October 25, 2019
Lauter Tub
Vertical and usually cylindrical, straining tank having a false bottom for separating the wort from the spent grains... Read More
Vertical and usually cylindrical, straining tank having a false bottom for separating the wort from the spent grains... Read More
October 25, 2019
Lambic
A type of Belgian beer fermented using wild instead of cultured yeasts... Read More
A type of Belgian beer fermented using wild instead of cultured yeasts... Read More
October 25, 2019
Lager
To age; to store, frequently while a slow after or secondary fermentation process under bunging pressure is taking place; lager means storage in German. A class of beer made with a bottom-fermenting yeast strain. Usually fermented at cooler temperatures than ale and lagered (stored cold) after fe..... Read More
To age; to store, frequently while a slow after or secondary fermentation process under bunging pressure is taking pl..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Lactic Acid
An organic acid, which gives spoiled milk its sourness. Small amounts of pure lactic acid are commonly used as a brewing water additive to reduce pH. Certain types of bacterial infections may produce large quantities of lactic acid during fermentation, imparting a distinct sour flavor to the fini..... Read More
An organic acid, which gives spoiled milk its sourness. Small amounts of pure lactic acid are commonly used as a brew..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Kriek
A Lambic fermented with cherries... Read More
A Lambic fermented with cherries... Read More
October 25, 2019
Krausen
Krausen, pronounced, kroy-zen, is the foamy and bubbly head that forms on top of beer during primary fermentation. As yeast ferments the sugars in a beer, it creates a great deal of CO2. The Krausen is formed as the CO2 rises to the top of the beer mixing with proteins, yeast and residues in the ..... Read More
Krausen, pronounced, kroy-zen, is the foamy and bubbly head that forms on top of beer during primary fermentation. As..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Kit
Usually refers to a hopped malt extract... Read More
Usually refers to a hopped malt extract... Read More
October 25, 2019
Kieselguhr
Natural diatomaceous earth... Read More
Natural diatomaceous earth... Read More
October 25, 2019
Kernel
The whole grain or seed of a cereal or the inner portion of a seed... Read More
The whole grain or seed of a cereal or the inner portion of a seed... Read More
October 25, 2019
Iso-electric Point
pH value at which the electrical charge of an amino acid is zero... Read More
pH value at which the electrical charge of an amino acid is zero... Read More
October 25, 2019
Isinglass
A semi-transparent, whitish and very pure form of gelatine, prepared from the air-bladders of certain fish, originally sturgeons, now largely cod, ling and carp... Read More
A semi-transparent, whitish and very pure form of gelatine, prepared from the air-bladders of certain fish, originall..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Irish Moss
Is a form of dried seaweed, used to help clarify beer. Irish moss is added to the kettle during the boil; it causes more of the dissolved proteins to precipitate out, in the form of hot break. This means there are less proteins left in the finished beer, resulting in less chill haze... Read More
Is a form of dried seaweed, used to help clarify beer. Irish moss is added to the kettle during the boil; it causes m..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Initial Mashing
The temperature at which malt and water are brought together at Temp commencement of mashing. Learn more about All Grain Brewing.. Read More
The temperature at which malt and water are brought together at Temp commencement of mashing. Learn more about All Gr..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Infusion Mash
Simplest procedure for conducting a mash in which crushed grain is mixed with hot water to arrive at a pre-determined rest... Read More
Simplest procedure for conducting a mash in which crushed grain is mixed with hot water to arrive at a pre-determined..... Read More
October 25, 2019
In Vivo
In the living organism... Read More
In the living organism... Read More
October 25, 2019
In Vitro
Literally, "in glass." Performed in a test tube or other laboratory apparatus... Read More
Literally, "in glass." Performed in a test tube or other laboratory apparatus... Read More
October 25, 2019
Infusion
Infusion is the process of extracting flavours from plant material by allowing the material to remain suspended within water... Read More
Infusion is the process of extracting flavours from plant material by allowing the material to remain suspended withi..... Read More
October 25, 2019
IBU
International Bitterness Unit. A measure of the bitterness in beer... Read More
International Bitterness Unit. A measure of the bitterness in beer... Read More
October 25, 2019
Hygrometer
An apparatus for measuring the degree of moisture of the atmosphere... Read More
An apparatus for measuring the degree of moisture of the atmosphere... Read More
October 25, 2019
Hydrolosis
A chemical process of decomposition involving addition of water... Read More
A chemical process of decomposition involving addition of water... Read More
October 25, 2019
Hybrid Grapes
A cross between North American and European grapes... Read More
A cross between North American and European grapes... Read More
October 25, 2019
Humidity
a. The absolute humidity is the amount of vapor actually present in the air and is expressed either in its expansive force, or in its weight per given volume. b. Relative humidity is the ratio of the quantity of vapor actually present, to the greatest amount possible at the given condition. Compl..... Read More
a. The absolute humidity is the amount of vapor actually present in the air and is expressed either in its expansive ..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Hopback
A hopback is a sealed chamber that is inserted in between the brewing kettle and counter-flow wort chiller. Hops are added to the chamber, the hot wort from the kettle is run through it, and then immediately cooled in the wort chiller before entering the fermentation chamber. It facilitates maxim..... Read More
A hopback is a sealed chamber that is inserted in between the brewing kettle and counter-flow wort chiller. Hops are ..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Hop Nose
The fragrant odor of hops in beer... Read More
The fragrant odor of hops in beer... Read More
October 25, 2019
Hoop
A circular band, of metal, wire or wood, used to hold the staves of a barrel together... Read More
A circular band, of metal, wire or wood, used to hold the staves of a barrel together... Read More
October 25, 2019
Head (of Beer)
The foam on beer... Read More
The foam on beer... Read More
October 25, 2019
Herbaceaous
Describes a wine or beer that smells or tastes grassy or green. Often a characteristic of wines made from Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon grapes. Can also be found in very young wines that will change flavor as they age. Primarily a function of the grape variety, not soil or climate... Read More
Describes a wine or beer that smells or tastes grassy or green. Often a characteristic of wines made from Sauvignon B..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Hardness
The hardness of water is equal to the concentration of dissolved calcium and magnesium ions. Usually expressed as ppm of (CaCO₃)... Read More
The hardness of water is equal to the concentration of dissolved calcium and magnesium ions. Usually expressed as ppm..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Gypsum
Sulfate of lime combined with water forms gypsum. Plaster of Paris is burnt gypsum, or gypsum freed from one half of its water content... Read More
Sulfate of lime combined with water forms gypsum. Plaster of Paris is burnt gypsum, or gypsum freed from one half of ..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Growler
Glass jug, typically ½ gallon capacity. Commonly used by brewpubs and micro breweries in the US, to sell fresh draft beer for carry-out... Read More
Glass jug, typically ½ gallon capacity. Commonly used by brewpubs and micro breweries in the US, to sell fresh draft ..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Grits
Hulled and coarsely ground grain; especially coarse hominy... Read More
Hulled and coarsely ground grain; especially coarse hominy... Read More
October 25, 2019
Grist
Crushed malt grains used for mashing. Grist should be only gently crushed to expose the husk interior, not broken apart or ground into powder. Ground grains will result in tannins and astringency in beer... Read More
Crushed malt grains used for mashing. Grist should be only gently crushed to expose the husk interior, not broken apa..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Grain Bill
A list of the types and quantities of malt and other grains used in a beer recipe... Read More
A list of the types and quantities of malt and other grains used in a beer recipe... Read More
October 25, 2019
Glycerine
Used in wine making to make the wine more mellow, or have less bite... Read More
Used in wine making to make the wine more mellow, or have less bite... Read More
October 25, 2019
Glucose
The primary sugar found in grapes... Read More
The primary sugar found in grapes... Read More
October 25, 2019
Germination
Part of the malting process where the acrospire grows and begins to erupt from the hull... Read More
Part of the malting process where the acrospire grows and begins to erupt from the hull... Read More
October 25, 2019
Gelatinize
Starch gelatinization is the process of irreversibly dissolving the starch granule in water with the application of heat usually... Read More
Starch gelatinization is the process of irreversibly dissolving the starch granule in water with the application of h..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Full-bodied (Wine)
Full-bodied wines are characterized by their ability to coat your mouth... Read More
Full-bodied wines are characterized by their ability to coat your mouth... Read More
October 25, 2019
Framboise
Framboise is used primarily in reference to a Belgian lambic that is fermented using raspberries... Read More
Framboise is used primarily in reference to a Belgian lambic that is fermented using raspberries... Read More
October 25, 2019
Foreign Extra Stout
Foreign Extra Stouts were designed for export. They are more heavily hopped than standard stouts. They also typically have a higher alcohol content... Read More
Foreign Extra Stouts were designed for export. They are more heavily hopped than standard stouts. They also typically..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Flor
Flor is Spanish and Portuguese for flower. It is a winemaking term that refers to the film of yeast on the surface of wine... Read More
Flor is Spanish and Portuguese for flower. It is a winemaking term that refers to the film of yeast on the surface of..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Flare Fitting
Flare fittings are a style of compression fitting used to connect brew gear... Read More
Flare fittings are a style of compression fitting used to connect brew gear... Read More
October 25, 2019
First Runnings
First runnings are the liquid that you would drain out of your mash tun before sparging... Read More
First runnings are the liquid that you would drain out of your mash tun before sparging... Read More
October 25, 2019
Fermentation Lock
A fermentation lock better known as an airlock is a piece of equipment or lid that is designed to let CO2 out without letting air back in to your fermentation vessel... Read More
A fermentation lock better known as an airlock is a piece of equipment or lid that is designed to let CO2 out without..... Read More
October 25, 2019
False Wine
A second wine made from the left over grape skins with sugar and water... Read More
A second wine made from the left over grape skins with sugar and water... Read More
October 25, 2019
Extraction
The soluble material derived from barley malt and adjuncts. Not necessarily fermentable... Read More
The soluble material derived from barley malt and adjuncts. Not necessarily fermentable... Read More
October 25, 2019
Ethanol
Also known as grain alcohol, ethanol is what gets us drunk. It is produced (along with co2) when sugars are fermented by yeast. The chemical formula for ethanol is C2H5OH... Read More
Also known as grain alcohol, ethanol is what gets us drunk. It is produced (along with co2) when sugars are fermented..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Enology
The science and study of winemaking. Also spelled oenology... Read More
The science and study of winemaking. Also spelled oenology... Read More
October 25, 2019
English Bitter
A gold to copper colored ale, with pronounced hop bitterness. The terms Ordinary Bitter, Best Bitter, and Strong Bitter are commonly used to refer to increasingly higher strength versions of Bitter. Stronger versions may slo be referred to as English Pale Ale... Read More
A gold to copper colored ale, with pronounced hop bitterness. The terms Ordinary Bitter, Best Bitter, and Strong Bitt..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Emulsion
A fine dispersion of minute droplets of one liquid in another in which it is not soluble or miscible... Read More
A fine dispersion of minute droplets of one liquid in another in which it is not soluble or miscible... Read More
October 25, 2019
Empirical
Depending on experience or observation alone... Read More
Depending on experience or observation alone... Read More
October 25, 2019
Dunkel
A dark, malty, German-style lager beer. The word "dunkel" means "dark", and is also sometimes used as an adjective, as in "Dunkel Weizen" (meaning dark wheat beer)... Read More
A dark, malty, German-style lager beer. The word "dunkel" means "dark", and is also sometimes used as an adjective, a..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Dry Stout
A very dark ale, with a roasted (sometimes coffee-like) character. Guinness Stout (draft) is the prototypical Dry Stout. Contrary to popular belief, Dry Stouts are generally not very alcoholic, and some examples may even be lower in alcohol than a typical American "mega-brew"... Read More
A very dark ale, with a roasted (sometimes coffee-like) character. Guinness Stout (draft) is the prototypical Dry Sto..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Doubling
The addition of unyeasted wort to beer in the first stage of the main fermentation... Read More
The addition of unyeasted wort to beer in the first stage of the main fermentation... Read More
October 25, 2019
Doppelbock
Most commonly used to refer to a very strong, German-style lager beer. To be called a Doppelbock under German law, a beer must have an original gravity of at least 18 P (specific gravity of 1.072). Most Doppelbocks have names ending in -otor, in the tradition of Paulaner Savator, which is widely ..... Read More
Most commonly used to refer to a very strong, German-style lager beer. To be called a Doppelbock under German law, a ..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Distillation
The process of heating a liquid to its boiling point, removing the vapors through a cooling and condensing apparatus, and finally collecting the condensed vapors, as a liquid, in a separate receiver. Method of separating liquids from solids or liquids having different boiling points from each oth..... Read More
The process of heating a liquid to its boiling point, removing the vapors through a cooling and condensing apparatus,..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Dissociation
The splitting of a compound into two or more simpler molecules, atoms, or ions... Read More
The splitting of a compound into two or more simpler molecules, atoms, or ions... Read More
October 25, 2019
Decoction
Mash method involving the boiling of parts of the mash and return of coagulation. It is characterized by a loss of solubility at the iso electric points, greater susceptibility to proteolytic enzymes, and a change in the specific rotation. It does not occur without the presence of water... Read More
Mash method involving the boiling of parts of the mash and return of coagulation. It is characterized by a loss of so..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Decanting
Decanting is a process of removing liquid from sediment that have fallen out of suspension. For example after making your yeast starter and cold crashing so that the yeast can fall out of suspension you would decant off the liquid... Read More
Decanting is a process of removing liquid from sediment that have fallen out of suspension. For example after making ..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Culture Medium
Any nutrient system for the artificial cultivation of bacteria or other cells; usually a complex mixture of organic and inorganic materials... Read More
Any nutrient system for the artificial cultivation of bacteria or other cells; usually a complex mixture of organic a..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Culture
As a noun, cultivation of living organisms in prepared medium; as a verb, to grow in prepared medium... Read More
As a noun, cultivation of living organisms in prepared medium; as a verb, to grow in prepared medium... Read More
October 25, 2019
Cream Ale
A variation on American Light Lager. Fermented as a ale but lagered. Typically contains rice or corn as an adjunct... Read More
A variation on American Light Lager. Fermented as a ale but lagered. Typically contains rice or corn as an adjunct... Read More
October 25, 2019
Coupling
A device that serves to connect the ends of adjacent parts or objects. Example: hose couplings... Read More
A device that serves to connect the ends of adjacent parts or objects. Example: hose couplings... Read More
October 25, 2019
Corn Syrup
A sugar syrup which has been manufactured from corn. May contain flavorings (e.g. vanilla), and/or preservatives... Read More
A sugar syrup which has been manufactured from corn. May contain flavorings (e.g. vanilla), and/or preservatives... Read More
October 25, 2019
Corked
An expression used when a wine has gone bad. Typically because the cork has lost its resiliency and may even be crumbly... Read More
An expression used when a wine has gone bad. Typically because the cork has lost its resiliency and may even be crumbly... Read More
October 25, 2019
Cordial
Sweet fruit beverage, 20-24% alcohol.. Read More
Sweet fruit beverage, 20-24% alcohol.. Read More
October 25, 2019
Copper
A British term for the kettle... Read More
A British term for the kettle... Read More
October 25, 2019
Cone
Any of several cone-like flower or fruit clusters, as in the hop... Read More
Any of several cone-like flower or fruit clusters, as in the hop... Read More
October 25, 2019
Cold Stabilizing
This is the process of removing tartaric acid from wine by chilling the wine down below 30°F for a few weeks. The cold temperature causes the tartaric acid to bond to potassium and create large potassium bitartrate crystals that are too large to stay in solution. This is done for two reasons; to ..... Read More
This is the process of removing tartaric acid from wine by chilling the wine down below 30°F for a few weeks. The col..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Coagulation
The act or state of becoming viscous, jelly-like or solid, or of uniting into a coherent mass; especially the change from a liquid to a thickened, curd- like state by chemical reaction... Read More
The act or state of becoming viscous, jelly-like or solid, or of uniting into a coherent mass; especially the change ..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Cloying
Overly sweet, typically leaving a slickness on your tongue... Read More
Overly sweet, typically leaving a slickness on your tongue... Read More
October 25, 2019
Classic American Pilsner
The ancestor of the American Light Lager style, as it existed prior to Prohibition. More flavor and body than an American Light Lager — closer to its Continental Pilsner roots, but with an American malt and hop character. Frequently contains corn as an adjunct... Read More
The ancestor of the American Light Lager style, as it existed prior to Prohibition. More flavor and body than an Amer..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Clarification
Newly fermented beers and wines are murky due to the presence of suspended solids, mainly yeast. These solids will settle naturally to the bottom of a vessel or bottle in time, sped up by adding various substances to the brew near the end of fermentation. Unflavored gelatin is the clarifying subs..... Read More
Newly fermented beers and wines are murky due to the presence of suspended solids, mainly yeast. These solids will se..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Chlorine Bleach
Unscented Clorox or similar product, diluted at about one tablespoon per gallon, is an excellent sterilizing agent for bottles and equipment. Its disadvantage over campden tablets is that if not thoroughly rinsed from equipment, even a small amount will kill the yeast in your fermenter... Read More
Unscented Clorox or similar product, diluted at about one tablespoon per gallon, is an excellent sterilizing agent fo..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Chit Malt
Highly undermodified malt... Read More
Highly undermodified malt... Read More
October 25, 2019
Check
A stoppage or slowing up of the main fermentation before the beer's fermentation has completely attenuated... Read More
A stoppage or slowing up of the main fermentation before the beer's fermentation has completely attenuated... Read More
October 25, 2019
Chalk
The common name for calcium carbonate (CaCO3) also know as precipitated chalk in older recipes. Used to reduce high acid levels in juice, must, and wine. Use at a rate of 0.7-1.5 g/l to reduce TA by 1g/l (0.1%). This method should be used at least 3 months before bottling to prevent a chalk haze ..... Read More
The common name for calcium carbonate (CaCO3) also know as precipitated chalk in older recipes. Used to reduce high a..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Cellulose
(C6H10O5)x: a polysaccharide composed of D-glucopyranoside units. It forms the cell walls and fibrous structure of many plants, and is the chief constituent of paper and wood... Read More
(C6H10O5)x: a polysaccharide composed of D-glucopyranoside units. It forms the cell walls and fibrous structure of ma..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Cellar
n. A cellar is a storage room for wine and beer. v. To age and/or store wine or beer in a storage room... Read More
n. A cellar is a storage room for wine and beer. v. To age and/or store wine or beer in a storage room... Read More
October 25, 2019
Cask
Originally an oak container (barrel) with a side bung hole and tap for holding,transporting and dispensing beer. Later versions similar in design and concept but made from aluminum or stainless steel. Ranging in size from a Pin (4.5 Imp. Gallon) to a Hogs Head (54 Imp. Gallon)... Read More
Originally an oak container (barrel) with a side bung hole and tap for holding,transporting and dispensing beer. Late..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Carboy
Large glass jug, such as you see on old-fashioned water coolers. Really fine for fermenting beer and wine as long as you don’t use the cap forming or top fermenting ale yeasts... Read More
Large glass jug, such as you see on old-fashioned water coolers. Really fine for fermenting beer and wine as long as ..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Carbon Dioxide
A heavy, colorless, gas (CO2). Two grams fermented wort extract will produce about 1 gram of alcohol and 1 gram of CO2... Read More
A heavy, colorless, gas (CO2). Two grams fermented wort extract will produce about 1 gram of alcohol and 1 gram of CO2... Read More
October 25, 2019
Caramel Malt
A malt that is made by raising the temperature of wet green malt to a temperature during which the enzymes in the malt convert the starch to sugars, in effect mashing the grain "in the husk." Also referred to interchangeably as "Crystal malt.".. Read More
A malt that is made by raising the temperature of wet green malt to a temperature during which the enzymes in the mal..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Carrageenan
Is the polysaccharide fraction of Irish Moss, soluble in hot water... Read More
Is the polysaccharide fraction of Irish Moss, soluble in hot water... Read More
October 25, 2019
Capsule
The protective metal or plastic sheath over the cork and neck of a wine bottle. The capsule keeps the cork from drying out and admitting air into the bottle. Can also be called a PVC capsule... Read More
The protective metal or plastic sheath over the cork and neck of a wine bottle. The capsule keeps the cork from dryin..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Calorie
Amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one gram of water one degree Centigrade... Read More
Amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one gram of water one degree Centigrade... Read More
October 25, 2019
California Common
California Commons are thought to have originated on the west coast of the US in the 1800s. They are similar to Pale Ales, but they have a unique quality from being fermented with lager yeasts are warmer than normal temps... Read More
California Commons are thought to have originated on the west coast of the US in the 1800s. They are similar to Pale ..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Buffer
A chemical solution, such as a salt, that by disassociation or re-association stabilizes the pH of a solution... Read More
A chemical solution, such as a salt, that by disassociation or re-association stabilizes the pH of a solution... Read More
October 25, 2019
Brown Malt
A medium-dark toasted malt, not as dark as chocolate or black malt. Color is typically around 60°L; imparts a pronounced coffee/roasted flavor, seemingly out of proportion to its color. Contains starch, but no enzymes (should be mashed with pale malt). Historically, brown malt was dried over a wo..... Read More
A medium-dark toasted malt, not as dark as chocolate or black malt. Color is typically around 60°L; imparts a pronoun..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Brine
Water to which sodium chloride is added to lower its freezing point. Term can also be applied if calcium chloride, potassium carbonate, specially denatured ethyl alcohol or propylene glycol are added. Level of corrosion inhibitor and pH must be controlled... Read More
Water to which sodium chloride is added to lower its freezing point. Term can also be applied if calcium chloride, po..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Brilliancy
Property (of a beer) of being transparent and sparkling... Read More
Property (of a beer) of being transparent and sparkling... Read More
October 25, 2019
Braggot
A mead in which some of the fermentable sugars come from malt; or, a mixture of ale and mead... Read More
A mead in which some of the fermentable sugars come from malt; or, a mixture of ale and mead... Read More
October 25, 2019
Bouquet
A French term for the aroma of a wine. The bouquet is often the first indicator of a wine's quality during wine tasting. Aromas may include fruit, spice, and other smells associated with a particular grape variety, region, or condition of the wine. The bouquet of a Merlot, for example, will often..... Read More
A French term for the aroma of a wine. The bouquet is often the first indicator of a wine's quality during wine tasti..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Bottle Sickness
A temporary condition characterized by muted or disjointed fruit flavors. It often occurs immediately after bottling or when wines (usually fragile wines) are shaken in travel. Also called bottle shock. A few days of rest is the cure... Read More
A temporary condition characterized by muted or disjointed fruit flavors. It often occurs immediately after bottling ..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Blow-off
A type of airlock arrangement consisting of a tube exiting from the fermenter, submerging into a bucket of water, that allows the release of carbon dioxide and removal of excess fermentation material... Read More
A type of airlock arrangement consisting of a tube exiting from the fermenter, submerging into a bucket of water, tha..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Bitterness Unit (BU)
A method of measuring the degree of bitterness in beer. The bitter substances are extracted from acidified beer with iso-octane and the absorbance measured with a spectrophotometer at 275 nm... Read More
A method of measuring the degree of bitterness in beer. The bitter substances are extracted from acidified beer with ..... Read More
October 25, 2019
BJCP
Beer Judging Certification Program. A program of certifying and ranking beer judges, involving a written examination, scoring test beers, and gaining points by helping run BJCP Registered competitions (judging, stewarding, organizing, etc.)... Read More
Beer Judging Certification Program. A program of certifying and ranking beer judges, involving a written examination,..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Bitterness
The bitter substances in beer which are mainly iso-alpha acids... Read More
The bitter substances in beer which are mainly iso-alpha acids... Read More
October 25, 2019
Beer Stone
Grayish-brown deposit of calcium oxalate and organic matter on surface of equipment in prolonged contact with beer... Read More
Grayish-brown deposit of calcium oxalate and organic matter on surface of equipment in prolonged contact with beer... Read More
October 25, 2019
Beer Geek
Any homebrewer who has advanced beyond simple kit brewing, or any person who has taken (and passed) the BJCP Certification Exam... Read More
Any homebrewer who has advanced beyond simple kit brewing, or any person who has taken (and passed) the BJCP Certific..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Bâtonnage
The term for stirring the lees back up into the wine... Read More
The term for stirring the lees back up into the wine... Read More
October 25, 2019
Batch
Quantity of wine/beer produced at one time... Read More
Quantity of wine/beer produced at one time... Read More
October 25, 2019
Barleywine
Barleywines tend to be high in alcohol, with a lot of sweetness left from unfermented sugars. Many are quite hoppy as well, to balance that sweetness... Read More
Barleywines tend to be high in alcohol, with a lot of sweetness left from unfermented sugars. Many are quite hoppy as..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Banana Powder
Additive used to increase body in wine recipes... Read More
Additive used to increase body in wine recipes... Read More
October 25, 2019
Ball Lock
The most common type of keg fitting used on soda kegs, for the liquid and gas connections. The quick-disconnect locks onto a groove in the keg fitting using a spring-loaded collar, and small steel ball bearings... Read More
The most common type of keg fitting used on soda kegs, for the liquid and gas connections. The quick-disconnect locks..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Bacteria
Bacteria are microscopic organisms that are typically undesirable in beer. However some bacteria are cultivated for their ability to create sour flavors in Lambics, Berliner Weisses, and American style sour beers... Read More
Bacteria are microscopic organisms that are typically undesirable in beer. However some bacteria are cultivated for t..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Autolysis
Autolysis is the process of yeast cells breaking open in a sort of self-digestion. This process can create muddy, soy sauce-like flavors... Read More
Autolysis is the process of yeast cells breaking open in a sort of self-digestion. This process can create muddy, soy..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Autoclave
An autoclave is a chamber used to increase heat and pressure, typically for the process of sterilization... Read More
An autoclave is a chamber used to increase heat and pressure, typically for the process of sterilization... Read More
October 25, 2019
Artesian Well
A well that flows to the surface with force, due to the pressure it is under... Read More
A well that flows to the surface with force, due to the pressure it is under... Read More
October 25, 2019
Aphid
Aphids are small bugs that can infest hop bines. These infestations result in yield decline and effect hop cone quality... Read More
Aphids are small bugs that can infest hop bines. These infestations result in yield decline and effect hop cone quality... Read More
October 25, 2019
Amylases
Amylases are enzymes responsible for breaking large starches into smaller sugars so that the yeasts used in brewing can easily digest them... Read More
Amylases are enzymes responsible for breaking large starches into smaller sugars so that the yeasts used in brewing c..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Amino Acids
Amino acids are compounds that join together to form proteins... Read More
Amino acids are compounds that join together to form proteins... Read More
October 25, 2019
American Light Lager
American light Lagers have a light fizzy body with a crispness usually enhanced by rice and/or corn. These were made popular by the large Macro-Breweries after prohibition ended... Read More
American light Lagers have a light fizzy body with a crispness usually enhanced by rice and/or corn. These were made ..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Amber Malt
Amber malt is a more toasted version of pale malt. It is a traditional malt used in the making of brown porters and must be mashed... Read More
Amber malt is a more toasted version of pale malt. It is a traditional malt used in the making of brown porters and m..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Alpha Acid
Alpha acids are responsible for the bitterness we taste in beer. When boiling the wort the heat extracts these compounds and isomerizes them into iso-alpha acids... Read More
Alpha acids are responsible for the bitterness we taste in beer. When boiling the wort the heat extracts these compou..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Alkalinity
Alkalinity is the measurement of an alkali solution's ability neutralize an acid... Read More
Alkalinity is the measurement of an alkali solution's ability neutralize an acid... Read More
October 25, 2019
Alkali
An alkali is a salt that will usually dissolve in water. A solution of one of these salts would have a pH that is greater than 7.0. These alkalis are what you would use to raise the pH of your mash water if it is too acidic... Read More
An alkali is a salt that will usually dissolve in water. A solution of one of these salts would have a pH that is gre..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Ale
An ale is a beer fermented with top-fermenting yeast. It can also sometimes refer to beers with more body or darker in color... Read More
An ale is a beer fermented with top-fermenting yeast. It can also sometimes refer to beers with more body or darker i..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Alcohol tolerance
The level of alcohol that a yeast strain can survive at... Read More
The level of alcohol that a yeast strain can survive at... Read More
October 25, 2019
Albumin
Proteins in beer which affect head retention... Read More
Proteins in beer which affect head retention... Read More
October 25, 2019
Air Lock
An airlock is essentially a piece of equipment or lid that is designed to let CO2 out without letting air back in to your fermentation vessel... Read More
An airlock is essentially a piece of equipment or lid that is designed to let CO2 out without letting air back in to ..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Adsorption
The adhesion, in an extremely thin layer of the molecules of gases, of dissolved substances, or of liquids, to the surfaces of solid bodies, with which they are in contact... Read More
The adhesion, in an extremely thin layer of the molecules of gases, of dissolved substances, or of liquids, to the su..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Adjunct
Adjuncts are any ingredients that are additional or unnecessary to the style of beer you are making. Even though they might still be beneficial or attractive to reach a desired outcome... Read More
Adjuncts are any ingredients that are additional or unnecessary to the style of beer you are making. Even though they..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Acetic acid
Acetic acid is what gives vinegar its sour kick. It is created by the acetobacter family of bacteria... Read More
Acetic acid is what gives vinegar its sour kick. It is created by the acetobacter family of bacteria... Read More
October 25, 2019
Absorption
The penetration of a liquid or solid into or through another liquid or solid, the particles that are absorbed being molecular or micellar in size. A few solid bodies have the power of taking up or absorbing gases, for instance, charcoal or activated carbon... Read More
The penetration of a liquid or solid into or through another liquid or solid, the particles that are absorbed being m..... Read More
October 25, 2019
How to Start a Siphon
There are a few ways to start a siphon. At the very least, you will need a racking cane (preferably curved) and at least three feet of siphon tubing. There are a couple methods for using a racking cane to siphon: You can place your racking tube into the fermenter and attach your siphon tubing to..... Read More
There are a few ways to start a siphon. At the very least, you will need a racking cane (preferably curved) and at le..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Home Brewing: How to Start
Homebrewing is used to describing making beer at home using brewing equipment and brewing ingredients (Grain, Hops, Yeast & Water) What most people don't realize is that making beer at home is significantly easier than they think. If you're thinking about making your own craft beer, consider ..... Read More
Homebrewing is used to describing making beer at home using brewing equipment and brewing ingredients (Grain, Hops, Y..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Beer Making Equipment List
A common question we get asked at Midwest is "What equipment do I need to get started?" Below is a list of equipment that you'll need to get started. This is not the end-all/be-all of brewing, but a good place to start. Remember, most of these items can be bought in the equipment kits we offer. ..... Read More
A common question we get asked at Midwest is "What equipment do I need to get started?" Below is a list of equipment ..... Read More
October 25, 2019
How to Clean a Beer Glass
Recently, more and more folks have become aware that the best way to serve a beer is to have the glass "beer glass clean." "Beer glass clean" means that the glass is free from any sediment, oil, fragrance, or other material that accumulate during cleaning using conventional methods. Beer glasses ..... Read More
Recently, more and more folks have become aware that the best way to serve a beer is to have the glass "beer glass cl..... Read More
October 25, 2019
How Much Fruit to Add to Beer
So, you want to add fruit to your homebrew. Well the amount of fruit you'll need depends on the beer recipe and the type of fruit you are adding, but generally 3-7 pounds will do for a 5 gallon batch of beer. Don't be afraid to experiment with the amounts depending on how much fruit flavor you wa..... Read More
So, you want to add fruit to your homebrew. Well the amount of fruit you'll need depends on the beer recipe and the t..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Priming Sugar Substitutes or Alternatives
While many brewers elect to use priming sugar (corn sugar), there are several alternatives that can be used to carbonate your beer. Just about anything that has sugar in it could be used, but here are a few examples of the types and amounts of sugar you’ll need to carbonate a 5 gallon batch: Whi..... Read More
While many brewers elect to use priming sugar (corn sugar), there are several alternatives that can be used to carbon..... Read More
October 25, 2019
How to Change the Bitterness or Hoppiness of your Homebrew
Hops play a big role in how your beer turns out. For those new to brewing, hops are what add the bitterness to the beer. When a brewer is new to the hobby, hops can be one of the most difficult items to master because there is not a great way to test out what the hops taste like before using them..... Read More
Hops play a big role in how your beer turns out. For those new to brewing, hops are what add the bitterness to the be..... Read More
October 25, 2019
How to Pour the Perfect Glass of Beer
Start with a glass clean of any residue, including soap film. Place the glass at a 45 degree angle, one inch below the faucet. Do not let the glass touch the faucet. Open the faucet all the way in one swift motion. After the glass has reached ½ full, gradually bring the glass to an upright posit..... Read More
Start with a glass clean of any residue, including soap film. Place the glass at a 45 degree angle, one inch below t..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Ideal Storing Temperature for Ales and Lagers
Your main concerns here are heat and sunlight, both of which are bad for your beer. Heat can cause oxidation, which results in a stale, cardboard-like taste. If your house does not have air conditioning, we suggest storing your beer on the floor of your basement during the summer months, or in th..... Read More
Your main concerns here are heat and sunlight, both of which are bad for your beer. Heat can cause oxidation, which r..... Read More
October 25, 2019
How to Convert an All Grain Recipe to Extract
Many all-grain recipes are simply too complex to replicate in an extract brew. This doesn’t mean that it cannot be done, it just means that your extract version may not taste the same as the all-grain version. You can usually get pretty close, conversion-wise, anyhow. The ratio between liquid mal..... Read More
Many all-grain recipes are simply too complex to replicate in an extract brew. This doesn’t mean that it cannot be do..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Secondary Fermentation
Two-stage fermentation is fermenting by using two fermenters instead of one. Most homebrewers will start out using only one fermenter. This fermenter is called the primary fermenter because it is the first vessel wort is transferred into. If the fermented wort is then transferred into another ves..... Read More
Two-stage fermentation is fermenting by using two fermenters instead of one. Most homebrewers will start out using on..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Late Extract Addition Brewing Method
The Late Extract Addition process is very simple: the bulk of the fermentable sugars (generally malt extract) are added near the end of the boil, rather than at the beginning. Add 15-25% of your malt and/or fermentable sugars at the beginning of the boil. This will create a wort that has malt sug..... Read More
The Late Extract Addition process is very simple: the bulk of the fermentable sugars (generally malt extract) are add..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Specialty Grains
What are specialty grains? Specialty grains are added to impart specific and desirable character to a beer. Color, malt sweetness, and aroma are but a few of these characteristics, which can be controlled and "dialed in" to suit the individual taste for a specific style of beer. Specialty grains ..... Read More
What are specialty grains? Specialty grains are added to impart specific and desirable character to a beer. Color, ma..... Read More
October 25, 2019
How to Measure the Alcohol Content of Beer - ABV
Take a hydrometer reading right before you pitch the yeast into your wort (see our article "How to take a hydrometer reading" ). Make a note of this reading, which will vary by style but should be larger than 1.040. After the fermentation is complete, take another hydrometer reading right before ..... Read More
Take a hydrometer reading right before you pitch the yeast into your wort (see our article "How to take a hydrometer ..... Read More
October 25, 2019
3 Piece Airlock vs S-Type Airlock
There are no significant differences between the two types of airlocks in terms of functionality. Both will serve the purpose just fine. The three piece is much easier to clean, especially with the airlock brush, which was designed specifically to clean the three piece airlock. However, many home..... Read More
There are no significant differences between the two types of airlocks in terms of functionality. Both will serve the..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Liquid Malt Extract vs Dry Malt Extract
The primary difference between liquid and dry malt extract is the amount of water in each. Because the two types of malt are different in water content, a pound of liquid extract and a pound of dry extract differ in sugar content as well. Therefore, liquid and dry extract are not interchangeable ..... Read More
The primary difference between liquid and dry malt extract is the amount of water in each. Because the two types of m..... Read More
October 25, 2019
What is Malt Extract?
Malt extract is sugar extracted from malted grain. This concentrated and condensed extract is used to create wort by homebrewers. LME vs. DME Malt extract comes in two forms: liquid or dry malt extract (LME and DME, respectively). LME is a thick, sugary syrup, and DME is a dry powder. The primary..... Read More
Malt extract is sugar extracted from malted grain. This concentrated and condensed extract is used to create wort by ..... Read More
October 25, 2019
How to Make Beer
When you receive your Beer Making Kit, if you ordered your recipe kit with liquid yeast, refrigerate the yeast until you are ready to brew. Dry yeast can go in the refrigerator but it isn't critical. Before Brew Day: If you're using Wyeast, activate the Smack Pack the night before your brew day...... Read More
When you receive your Beer Making Kit, if you ordered your recipe kit with liquid yeast, refrigerate the yeast until..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Carbonating Bottled Beer
We recommend agitating each bottle and/or moving to a warmer temperature (70+ °F). If you added the sugar it will carbonate. Some styles will take longer to carbonate than others, and temperature can play a big role in carbonating a beer as well. It is not unusual for a beer to take 2-3 weeks to ..... Read More
We recommend agitating each bottle and/or moving to a warmer temperature (70+ °F). If you added the sugar it will car..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Function of Hops
Hops (Humulus lupulus) are a perennial climbing vine, a member of the family of Cannabinaceae and, hence, a close relative of Cannabis sativa. Only the female ripened flower is used for flavoring beer. There are presently over a hundred varieties of hops cultivated around the world. Some of the b..... Read More
Hops (Humulus lupulus) are a perennial climbing vine, a member of the family of Cannabinaceae and, hence, a close rel..... Read More
October 25, 2019
What is Hop Utilization?
Put simply, "hop utilization" refers to how well the hops have imparted their taste and aroma into the beer. For those that are looking for a more technical definition, hop utilization is the percentage of alpha acids that have been isomerized remain in the finished beer. Usually only about half ..... Read More
Put simply, "hop utilization" refers to how well the hops have imparted their taste and aroma into the beer. For thos..... Read More
October 25, 2019
How to Prime 5 Gallons of Beer with Corn Sugar or Dried Malt Extract (DME)
Dextrose (corn sugar) For bottling-priming 5 gallons of fully fermented beer using dextrose (corn sugar), add three quarters (¾) of a cup to achieve an appropriate carbonation level. You may wish to add slightly less or more depending on the style of beer or your own individual preference. For ke..... Read More
Dextrose (corn sugar) For bottling-priming 5 gallons of fully fermented beer using dextrose (corn sugar), add three q..... Read More
October 25, 2019
How to Sanitize Bottle Caps
For any of the standard, non-o2 absorbing caps, you can either boil them in water for 15 minutes or soak them in the sanitizing solution of your chossing for the needed contact time. Use Iodophor or Star San to sanitize oxygen-absorbing caps, since they, unlike One Step or oxygen cleaners/sanitiz..... Read More
For any of the standard, non-o2 absorbing caps, you can either boil them in water for 15 minutes or soak them in the ..... Read More
October 25, 2019
What is Flocculation?
Flocculation is the process where colloids, in our case yeast, come together to form a floc or flake and the drop out of suspension. The degree to which a yeast strain does this will determine how quickly your beer will naturally clear. Strains are separated into three main degrees of flocculatio..... Read More
Flocculation is the process where colloids, in our case yeast, come together to form a floc or flake and the drop out..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Homebrew Kettles
Your best bet is to go with a stainless steel kettle. While these are more expensive than the other options, a stainless steel kettle will last any brewer a lifetime. We suggest purchasing one of at least a 7 gallon capacity, that way if you decide to move up to all-grain brewing, it will be larg..... Read More
Your best bet is to go with a stainless steel kettle. While these are more expensive than the other options, a stainl..... Read More
October 25, 2019
How to Take a Hydrometer Reading
Hydrometers are a tool that every homebrewer and winemaker should become familiar with because they can tell you so much about what is going on. A hydrometer is a glass tube with a weight on one end. Its purpose is to measure the difference in gravity (density) between pure water and water with s..... Read More
Hydrometers are a tool that every homebrewer and winemaker should become familiar with because they can tell you so m..... Read More
October 25, 2019
When to Replace the Rubber Gaskets on my Grolsch-Style Swing-Cap Bottles
The rubber gasket seals will last for many uses before wearing out. They should be replaced if: There are visible cracks There is mold growth at any time The gasket has become thin The gasket has failed to seal on previous use If you receive Swing top bottles from someone else and are unsure of ..... Read More
The rubber gasket seals will last for many uses before wearing out. They should be replaced if: There are visible cr..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Brewing with Brown Sugar
Brown sugar is a great addition to many different brews. It works great in brown ales and porters, even some Stouts. It will add alcohol and some flavor to these styles.Brown sugar can even be added to hard cider and tropical fruit wine prior to fermentation. Brown sugar has a PPG of 45, so every..... Read More
Brown sugar is a great addition to many different brews. It works great in brown ales and porters, even some Stouts. ..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Ale Yeast vs Lager Yeast
Brewers yeast is categorized into two main varieties. They are classified as ale yeast (top-fermenting type, Saccharomyces cerevisiae) or lager yeast (bottom-fermenting type, Saccharomyces uvarum). These two varieties are further broken down into categories of specific strains. There are hundreds..... Read More
Brewers yeast is categorized into two main varieties. They are classified as ale yeast (top-fermenting type, Saccharo..... Read More
October 25, 2019
What is Attenuation?
Attenuation, to a brewer or vintner, is the percentage that measures the conversion of sugars into alcohol and carbon dioxide by the fermentation process. Attenuation can be calculated using this formula: (Starting Gravity - Final Gravity / Starting Gravity-1) = Attenuation Example: (1.061 - 1.01..... Read More
Attenuation, to a brewer or vintner, is the percentage that measures the conversion of sugars into alcohol and carbon..... Read More
October 25, 2019
What are Alpha Acids, AAU's, HBU's, and IBU's?
Alpha acid resins only contribute to the bitterness of the beer. Occurring naturally in the lupulin gland on the hop cone they are not very soluble in water. The reason that beer hops must be boiled is because the heat of boiling water creates a condition that allows a chemical reaction, called i..... Read More
Alpha acid resins only contribute to the bitterness of the beer. Occurring naturally in the lupulin gland on the hop ..... Read More
October 25, 2019
How to Increase the Alcohol Content in Beer
The simple answer to this is to add more sugar. The yeast eats the sugar and that produces more alcohol. Most brewers will use dry malt extract as their sugar source because it will add more alcohol to the beer, but doesn't add a lot of sweetness to the beer like table sugar will. Keep in mind th..... Read More
The simple answer to this is to add more sugar. The yeast eats the sugar and that produces more alcohol. Most brewers..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Grilling and Wine
Beer goes with outdoor cooking, there's no question. But there are wines that go well--or perhaps, better--than beer with your grilled foods. Here are my top tips for enjoying your wine in the backyards, along with some Master Vintner pairings that will set off your food and impress your guests..... Read More
Beer goes with outdoor cooking, there's no question. But there are wines that go well--or perhaps, better--than bee..... Read More
October 25, 2019
What are Wine Crystals?
If you make wine long enough, chances are you're eventually going to see a strange phenomenon in your bottle. You'll be all set to enjoy a glass of your delicious white, red or pink wine, pull the wine cork and there are tiny little shards, looking like crystal or glass, either on the cork or l..... Read More
If you make wine long enough, chances are you're eventually going to see a strange phenomenon in your bottle. You'l..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Wine Storage Temperature
The Snow Miser I'm Mister White Christmas I'm Mister Snow I'm Mister Icicle I'm Mister Ten Below Friends call me Snow Miser What ever I touch Turns to snow in my clutch I'm too much! --The Snow Miser I'm pretty sure that Rankin-Bass didn't include any wine drinking in their animat..... Read More
The Snow Miser I'm Mister White Christmas I'm Mister Snow I'm Mister Icicle I'm Mister Ten Below Friends c..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Degassing Wine
Degassing is one of those things that seems like it should be really easy to accomplish, but in practice it’s one of the most vexing areas of kit winemaking, to both amateurs and experienced vintners alike... Read More
Degassing is one of those things that seems like it should be really easy to accomplish, but in practice it’s one of ..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Keeping Fruit Flies Out of Wine
Summer is here: for winemakers that heralds the inevitable return of our sworn enemy, Drosophila Melanogaster — the common fruit fly. A tiny little flying monkey of doom, it’s hard to exclude them from your winemaking areas, and while easy to kill, by the time you've swatted one, thirteen more ..... Read More
Summer is here: for winemakers that heralds the inevitable return of our sworn enemy, Drosophila Melanogaster — the..... Read More
October 25, 2019
How to Use a Hydrometer in Wine Making
Understanding your hydrometer A hydrometer is a sealed, hollow, cylindrical glass tube with weight at the bottom and a graduated scale running up the tube. Like a thermometer, your hydrometer tells you something about your wine--and it has even more tricks than plain old temperature. 'Hollow' a..... Read More
Understanding your hydrometer A hydrometer is a sealed, hollow, cylindrical glass tube with weight at the bottom and..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Choosing Wine Yeast
We spend a lot of time thinking about yeast--unless someone is a professional baker they probably don't think about yeast very much at all, but as a winemaker, you need a good feel for how your yeast is going to work. Without it you won't get wine, just sweet grape juice--and that's no fun at a..... Read More
We spend a lot of time thinking about yeast--unless someone is a professional baker they probably don't think about..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Can Wine be Non-Alcoholic?
First, while there’s no satisfactory way to make wine without alcohol (that’s just fruit juice) there is a way to get the alcohol out of your wine after it’s finished. But the wine will be absolutely awful. There are some acceptable-tasting commercial non-alcohol wines. I can’t say they tast..... Read More
First, while there’s no satisfactory way to make wine without alcohol (that’s just fruit juice) there is a way to ..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Organic, Vegan, Gluten-Free Wine
We get a lot of questions about winemaking, our wines, and our wine ingredients. Today we'll talk about two that come up frequently. First, Angela from San Diego writes: Dear Master Vintner, I've been making wine for a while and I love it. But one of my friends is celiac and has a terrible pr..... Read More
We get a lot of questions about winemaking, our wines, and our wine ingredients. Today we'll talk about two that co..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Tim Vandergrift's Favorite Wine Kits
I get asked all the time, “What’s your favorite wine?” That’s like asking a parent, “Who’s your favorite child?” Of course you have one, but who wants to say out loud? I rarely have less than a dozen wines in my cellar or on tap at home. But there are a few that I return to again and again, bo..... Read More
I get asked all the time, “What’s your favorite wine?” That’s like asking a parent, “Who’s your favorite child?” O..... Read More
October 25, 2019
How to Taste Wine
If you're like most home winemakers, you love your wine, enjoy making it and sharing it with family and friends, but you may not be as confident in your general wine knowledge as you are with your vinting skills. You can tackle the book learning part of your knowledge base pretty easily. For ..... Read More
If you're like most home winemakers, you love your wine, enjoy making it and sharing it with family and friends, b..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Should I Chill a Red Wine?
Chilling Out: A Frosty Glass of Red Wine, the Perfect Summer Drink Sunshine in a glass Almost all wine books and guidelines will tell you to serve your reds at 'cellar temperature', which is 55-60°F. That's because the tannins in a really bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec or Nebbi..... Read More
Chilling Out: A Frosty Glass of Red Wine, the Perfect Summer Drink Sunshine in a glass Almost all wine books and ..... Read More
October 25, 2019
How to Age Wine
The top question beginner winemakers always ask is, “How long will my wine last?” It's surprisingly difficult to answer that question. If you look at historical purchase patterns for most home winemakers you could say, “About a month and a half, because your friends and family love it so much th..... Read More
The top question beginner winemakers always ask is, “How long will my wine last?” It's surprisingly difficult to ans..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Wine Alcohol by Volume (ABV)
One of the things about home winemaking that eventually occurs to everyone who does it is that you're actually making alcohol--that's kind of the point. Unlike the bottles you get from commercial vineyards and liquor stores, the wine you make won't come with a label attesting to the ABV. Kit..... Read More
One of the things about home winemaking that eventually occurs to everyone who does it is that you're actually ma..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Taking Care of Wine Corks
Corks, the original kind, are made from the bark of the Cork Oak, which is harvested once every 20 years without endangering the trees’ life. For centuries they were simply punched-out cylinders of cleaned bark, but innovation has brought many kinds of manufactured corks, along with some made en..... Read More
Corks, the original kind, are made from the bark of the Cork Oak, which is harvested once every 20 years without end..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Pairing Wine with Cheese
Wine and cheese, the phrase itself conjures a fun and classy way to enjoy two of the best things in the world—together! It's even better when you make your own wine and make your own cheese! But not every wine goes well with every cheese. If you're planning a fromage and vino pairing soiree, a l..... Read More
Wine and cheese, the phrase itself conjures a fun and classy way to enjoy two of the best things in the world—togeth..... Read More
October 25, 2019
No Bake Cannoli Cake
Prep: 30 min Chill: 5-7 hours Yield: 12 Servings "Leave the gun.Take the cannoli.” Some of the best movie dialogue is not scripted, but improvised, like these immortal words from The Godfather. This cake is an easy, improv version of the classic Italian dessert...made even better with fres..... Read More
Prep: 30 min Chill: 5-7 hours Yield: 12 Servings "Leave the gun.Take the cannoli.” Some of the best movie dial..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Mac and Cheese and Homebrew
Prep: 25 minutes Cook: 55 mins Yield: 6-8 servings I’m all for convenience, but some things are flat-out worth the effort. Like this recipe, which combines two of my favorite hobbies – homebrewing and cheesemaking. Sure…you could make mac n’ cheese out of a box mix. Just like you could buy..... Read More
Prep: 25 minutes Cook: 55 mins Yield: 6-8 servings I’m all for convenience, but some things are flat-out worth..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Sweet & Spicy Summer Salad
Prep: 20 min Yield: 6 servings When it’s too hot to cook, this easy summer salad is one of my favorites to enjoy during a late night dinner under the stars. The salty tang of the fresh feta is heightened by the sweet watermelon. But don’t let those flavors fool you. I also add a bit of hea..... Read More
Prep: 20 min Yield: 6 servings When it’s too hot to cook, this easy summer salad is one of my favorites to enj..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Cheesy Chorizo Jalapeño Poppers
Prep: 45 min Cook: 15 min Yield: 14 Servings Ingredients 1 pound Mexican chorizo sausage (not the cured Spanish style) 8 ounces cream cheese, softened 6 ounces shredded cheddar cheese 22 large jalapeño peppers, halved lengthwise and seeded 1 cup whole milk 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 cup d..... Read More
Prep: 45 min Cook: 15 min Yield: 14 Servings Ingredients 1 pound Mexican chorizo sausage (not the cured Span..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Grilled Corn, Bacon & Queso Pico de Gallo
Prep: 15 min Chill: 30 min Yield: 8 Servings You think people ooh and ahh when you bring fresh guacamole to a gathering? Try this fresh take on party dip. The char from the grill, combined with the bite of the peppers and cool queso fresco... it’s like an explosion of fresh flavors that wi..... Read More
Prep: 15 min Chill: 30 min Yield: 8 Servings You think people ooh and ahh when you bring fresh guacamole to a ..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Pull-Apart Margherita Mozzarella Pizza Bombs
Prep: 30 min Cook: 20 min Yield: 6 servings How do you improve upon pizza? That’s not just a philosophical question. I took that challenge seriously. The result: These delicious pizza bombs made with fresh mozz that stretches for days. That’s the biggest difference between fresh cheese and..... Read More
Prep: 30 min Cook: 20 min Yield: 6 servings How do you improve upon pizza? That’s not just a philosophical que..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Filtering Wine
Sometimes it seems like filtering is the final frontier of home winemaking. For every winemaker who filters, there are dozens who don’t. Some because the wine is just fine without filtering (and it is!), others because they don’t want to bother with the extra step or the expense, and others bec..... Read More
Sometimes it seems like filtering is the final frontier of home winemaking. For every winemaker who filters, there ..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Cheese Making With Tim Vandergrift
Among my many Attention Surplus Disorder activities like making wine [of course], curing my own meats, making pickles, brewing beer, making bread, gardening, making cider, roasting my own coffee, making soap, and whatever catches my eye this week, I like to make my own cheese. I can't claim to..... Read More
Among my many Attention Surplus Disorder activities like making wine [of course], curing my own meats, making pick..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Types of Cheese
Cheese can be as varied as wine when it comes to flavor and appearance. Be brave and experience each variety, you may be surprised at what becomes your favorite. Herbed Chèvre Fresh and light: cheeses that have not been aged, or are only lightly cured. These mild and creamy, and have a high..... Read More
Cheese can be as varied as wine when it comes to flavor and appearance. Be brave and experience each variety, you ma..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Coffee Roasted with Wine
Wine and Coffee, a Match Made In the Roaster A darn fine cup of coffee Last year I was visiting Master Vintner HQ and while I was there, Brewmaster Brad gave me a couple of pounds of green coffee beans that had been aged in a bourbon barrel. They smelled strongly of vanilla and toasty oak,..... Read More
Wine and Coffee, a Match Made In the Roaster A darn fine cup of coffee Last year I was visiting Master Vintner..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Wine and Beef Pairings
Pairing wine and food should be fun. It intimidates some people, as though there were really a wrong way to enjoy good food and good wine, and it could spoil your whole day. Nothing could be further from the truth—the one real rule is that any wine you want to drink, with any food that you wa..... Read More
Pairing wine and food should be fun. It intimidates some people, as though there were really a wrong way to enjoy..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Wine Braised Beef Short Ribs Recipe
The tannins in Cabernets Sauvignon make it a fantastic pairing for red meat and rich sauces, especially beef that's been slow cooked. Here's one of my favorite recipes for short ribs. Braised Beef Short Ribs Recipe 4 pounds boneless beef short ribs, cut into 1/2 pound portions 2 cups Cabernet..... Read More
The tannins in Cabernets Sauvignon make it a fantastic pairing for red meat and rich sauces, especially beef that's..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Red Wine Ribs Recipe
Summertime can mean only one thing: barbecue. Whether it’s succulent brisket, tender, smoky chicken or falling-off-the-bone ribs, barbecue is just about the best food you can eat on a sunny day, and my personal favorite is without a doubt ribs, especially if I get to enjoy it with a great glass..... Read More
Summertime can mean only one thing: barbecue. Whether it’s succulent brisket, tender, smoky chicken or falling-off-..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Sulfite Allergies and Wine: The Facts
There's no such thing as an allergic reaction to sulfite. As someone once observed, that's a bold statement. It's probably the most controversial thing I've ever said, and I say it a lot. And, I’m going to say it a bunch of times, right here. Sadly, the Internet seems to have become a platfor..... Read More
There's no such thing as an allergic reaction to sulfite. As someone once observed, that's a bold statement. It's ..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Residual Sugar in Wine
Dear Tim, I love your Master Vintner™ wine kits, and really like the wine I'm making with them. I've recently started exercising, and I've gone on a ketogenic diet and I want to figure out how many total carbohydrates there are in my wine Master Vintner™ Sommelier Select Old Vines Merlot. Can ..... Read More
Dear Tim, I love your Master Vintner™ wine kits, and really like the wine I'm making with them. I've recently star..... Read More
October 25, 2019
Water and Wine Making
Rime Of The Ancient Mariner Water, water, everywhere, And all the boards did shrink; Water, water, everywhere, Nor any drop to drink. The Rime of the Ancient Mariner Samuel Taylor Coleridge, 1798 I was toddling around an internet winemaking forum this past week when I was suddenly rem..... Read More
Rime Of The Ancient Mariner Water, water, everywhere, And all the boards did shrink; Water, water, everywher..... Read More