Learn to Homebrew Day

This past Saturday marked the American Homebrewers Association’s annual Learn to Homebrew Day (formerly known as Teach a Friend to Homebrew Day). The event offers prospective homebrewers a chance to see how the process works and established brewers can learn some new tips and techniques. It also doubles as a great excuse to blow off responsibilities on a sunny fall day, share some good beer, and meet some new friends.

I attended a local event hosted by Ron Smith. We had a good crowd of attendees including current homebrewers and students from Ron’s Beer MBA and IUPUI classes. A variety of brewing techniques were demonstrated including a Blonde Ale by Brian Steuerwald that used a base of malt extract, a Robust Porter by Tom Wallbank that used a no-sparge all-grain technique, and an American Pale Ale by Ron using a conventional all-grain process. Attendees also had the chance to learn about brewing software and tour the famous Smith beer cellar.

 

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Interested in embarking on a fun and highly addictive hobby? A basic beginner equipment kit starts as low as $80 and ingredients for most 5 gallon batches range from $25-$45. The American Homebrewers Association has some information to help you get started. Check out your local homebrew club and attend a meeting (you can find a listing on our Links page). If you live in central Indiana, Great Fermentations offers periodic brewing classes as well. The homebrewing hobby is a great creative outlet and is a hell of a lot cooler than playing golf!

 

 

2 comments:

Ron Smith said...

Thanks Nathan. People wanting to learn more about the world's beer styles, beer culture, as well taking the BJCP or Cicerone exams should visit my website at www.BeerMBA.com and sign up for the email list.

Thanks,
Ron Smith

Anonymous said...

I believe Tuxedo Park also offers classes...

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