Well, I just cracked open the first bottle of my first batch of home brew. It was an Irish Stout, and it turned out perfect! I was a little worried that it might not be perfectly carbonated, or that it might be spoiled due to bacteria. But, it came out perfectly. I didn't use a hydrometer, so I'm not sure what the final alcohol level is, but I'm guessing it's about a 6.5 - 7%. The great thing is, I've got about 4.5 gallons of the stuff all bottled up and ready to drink. I really didn't think it was going to taste sooooooo good. If anyone has ever thought about brewing thier own beer at home, I say go for it. It's totally rewarding when you open that first bottle. Or if you're more advanced, poor that first pint from your keg. Just in time for new years eve!

 

Sweet man. I have home brewed off and on for the past four or five years. I've yet to brew a stout (tried once and must not have sterilized everything well enough and it came out all FUBAR'd). Man, this has me aching to start up again. So many hobbies, so little time.

-Chris

 

Here's a tip for your next batch:

Any restaurant or hotel that does a Sunday brunch will happily give you cases and cases of empty champagne bottles... which are crown-capable.

M
(Imperial Stout!!!)

 

Greatest movie evar!!!