Why I Homebrew
Why I homebrew, for me, is at first glance a hard question to answer. When a friend or family member asks me this question I like to make a smart aleck response along the lines of “why do you breathe?” The answer is invariably something like “because I have to.” Making beer is not that much different for me. Homebrewing is something that I love doing, it is a part of my identity, and it’s my job. I am the manager for Austin Homebrew Supply. Believe it or not, it’s more than that.
As I am naturally a Do It Yourself person, homebrewing fits right into my lifestyle. I change the oil in my car, do the yard work and landscaping myself, build personal computers from component parts and I built the solar heater to my pool that snakes across the roof of my house. So, in late 2010 when a buddy of mine decided he wanted to make his own beer, I thought, “Why not? I needed something to drink while floating in my pool.”

 

At the time I was fond of drinking a German beer “Aecht Schlenkerla Urbock” which is a smoky beer without rival, it is almost like drinking a barbecued sausage. Our first rendition turned out okay. We started with a Cooper’s canned kit and added a lot of Rauch malt for a distinct Smokey flavor. It was nothing compared to the real Schlenkerla, but it was tasty, and from that moment on I was hooked. Since that first beer I have brewed pilsners, stouts, nut brown ales, porters, cream ales, pale ales and IPA’s. For you trekkies out there, I even made a Romulan ale that was as blue as the sky above and a wormwood beer that was…well crazy.

There is also a camaraderie among homebrewers that is unparalleled in other hobbyists or enthusiasts. Perhaps it’s the alcohol, but Austin and homebrewers in general have a vibrant community of brewers from all walks that are very welcoming and willing help a new homebrewer brew better beer. It’s that camaraderie that has helped maintain my interest in brewing. Is homebrewing as vital as breathing, probably not, but I never want to abandon this great hobby.

Homebrew reflections

Recent Articles

How to Make Hard Cider

How to Make Hard Cider

Compared to homebrewing beer, making hard cider at home is a much easier process. Since there’s no mash and no boil, it can be less labor intensive as well. Plus, you’ll be able to use the equipment you have on hand already, so why not give making hard cider a try?
How to Clean & Store an Oak Barrel

How to Clean & Store an Oak Barrel

It is advisable to avoid using barrels that have developed mold inside. When opting for barrels, investing in a new French or American oak barrel is a wise choice. Alternatively, if a used barrel is to be used, it should be thoroughly cleaned beforehand.
Aging Wine With Oak Chips

Aging Wine With Oak Chips

For centuries, the practice of aging red wines in oak casks has been recognized as far superior in enhancing their flavor and character compared to aging them solely in glass or plastic. French winemakers, who have employed this technique for generations, have produced wines of extraordinary complexity and taste as a result.