Recent content by cxp073

LostPhoenix: does this script still work? I have checked that the email is working, which it is, and have completed the rest of the instructions... is there any way to test if it works without messing with what is currently fermenting?

Just my two cents from someone who just completed their first decoction mash a couple weekends ago. First, I used beersmith for decoction volumes, and came up shy when remixing to make the step temp. I had to use boiling water to bring it up to where I wanted it, and subtract this from my...

Yeah, it was 1.051OG. I'll make sure it's complete fermentation - I was more concerned with conditioning time. Some say bottle right away after fermentation is complete, and others (like yourself) say it needs some time to condition. Decisions decisions!

Hi all First time brewing a dunkleweizen for me. I'm wondering how long I should wait after fermentation is complete before I bottle. It seems that many people recommend doing it as soon as fermentation is complete, as dunkleweizen is best drank as fresh as possible. What are your thoughts...

Kind of a catch 22 isn't it? My water report from the water authority shows a range for each value - how much is too much? If, on the other hand, I use an alkalinity testing kit, then I won't know the other values that I require (except for a range given on the local area's water report). If...

Thanks everyone - I've committed to getting my water tested and using Martin's spreadsheet. It's a little daunting, but I think once I have the numbers in front of me it will start to come together. I'll report back when I get my water tested!

The water analysis lab here only provides the details I listed above. I'm willing to pay postage, but only if the details I can get locally are insufficient.. Hopefully someone from the UK chimes in! Cheers

Problem being, I'm in the UK!

Hey everyone I am considering to delve into water chemistry to take my beer to the next level. To do it right, I am considering to pay for a private water analysis. I found one that will provide the following information: pH Nitrate Calcium Magnesium Chloride Sulphate Alkalinity as CaCO3 Total...

Hey guys I recently published a book review on Gordon Strong's new book, Modern Homebrew Recipes: Exploring Styles & Contemporary Techniques. Hope you find it informative! Cheers! http://grizzlybearloveskolsch.com/book-review-modern-homebrew-recipes-exploring-styles-contemporary-techniques/

Yes! I really needed this. I currently use the BJCP guidelines to assist me when tasting my beers, just like I did on this post: http://grizzlybearloveskolsch.com/kolsch-v-1-kolsch-v-2-compared/ , but I will be sure to take this form into account when I do my next tasting tests! Thanks!

That's a nice little setup you have there! I guess it really depends on whether the pump becomes strained when the wort inside the tube heats up. I can't see that being the case, though, because the pump is only running 1/2 open. I can open it, to 3/4 for example, and the flow would increase...

I didn't want to have to get another element, really. I'm sure I could find something but really wanted to use the parts I had. I managed to use the PID And tune it so that the 3kw element works flawlessly. I just posted a full tutorial / experience in my blog if your interested!

KISS, Keep It Simple Stupid, is a great moto to brew by. I like to take a ground up approach with my beers. Start basic (SMaSH) and then perfect by tweaking variables. That's how I'm working on achieving a great Kolsch and it's been working well so far! Http://grizzlybearloveskolsch.com

I really like Greg Turk's comment about using a Nalgene bottle to boil water with in the microwave. My mind is spinning right now with all the things I could utilise this approach for.. Cameron Http://grizzlybearloveskolsch.com