Quoting: Roadkill
Sammy's managed to wangle a product test of Lakeland's beer making kit.
I was eyeing that up last time I was in there. (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/chiny.gif)
Quoting: Incursus
I was eyeing that up last time I was in there.
Hold fire as I've already made various negative comments on it (no thermometer, no hydrometer, no rigid syphon tube / racking cane and instructions contradict themselves).
Quoting: art b
is it a two can kit ...?
Yup, 2 cans of malty tar-like goodness.
Quoting: Roadkill
Quoting: art b
is it a two can kit ...?
Yup, 2 cans of malty tar-like goodness.
they are the best kits ..(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/up.gif)
adding plain sugar is the one thing that gives the beer a grim twang...
Quoting: Roadkill
no thermometer, no hydrometer, no rigid syphon tube / racking cane and instructions contradict themselves).
Probably no bottles either?
Quoting: Roadkill
Really ?
It asks for 80g of brewers sugar before transferring it into the barrel . . . ?
brewers sugar is a different type of sugar to cane sugar, and is good to give the beer body....(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/up.gif)
Quoting: Incursus
Probably no bottles either?
No, but you do get a pressure keg.
Quoting: art b
brewers sugar is a different type of sugar to cane sugar, and is good to give the beer body....
So adding 80g as the instructions say is good, yeah ?
EDIT -
Art - Would you say a hydrometer is essential ? I'm considering picking one up. (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/chiny.gif)
Quoting: Roadkill
EDIT -
Art - Would you say a hydrometer is essential ? I'm considering picking one u
tbh i have one but dont use it,
it can be used to tell you when fermentation is complete,
but i leave the brew to ferment for 3 weeks then its clear and complete,
the hydro can be used for getting the abv,
wit a calculation from the start of fermentation[original gravity ] to the end of fermentation final gravity] if you so wish with a calculation,
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gravity_(alcoholic_beverage)
tbh ...i just make it and drink it ....(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/tongue.gif)
Quoting: Incursus
Probably no bottles either?
Time to start drinking Grolsch now before the impending arrival....(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/tongue.gif)
Quoting: Roadkill
The kit I've got says to leave it fermenting up to 1009 gravity, then barrel with sugar and leave for another 4 weeks (ideally) . . . It's a bottle conditioned jobbie.
Not sure if this is the norm for home brewing or not ??
beers ferment then need time for the yeast to slow down drop out and the beer will clear, so 3 weeks in the fermenter will ensure this happens,
time is the key to a good beer ..(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/up.gif)
the kits give unrealistic instructions,
to make it look more likely to get a finished product sooner ... (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/rolleyes.gif)
Quoting: Roadkill
No, but you do get a pressure keg.
(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/up.gif)
Works well for me, just decanted another 2 litres of fruit Cider to put into the fridge (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/wink.gif)
(http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c294/fbody007/Misc/IMAG1158_zps9365cb01.jpg)
(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/cheers.gif)
Quoting: Roadkill
I get the starter kit (bucket, siphon tube, spoon, steriliser and keg) and a Beer kit which makes up to 40 Pints.
So assuming you manage to produce a half decent beer, and to be fair I've had passable beers from an all in one just add water jobbie, the whole kit and caboodle (minus bottles and sugar) works out at around £65?
Which make 40 pints...almost paid for itself after the 1st use then... (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/chiny.gif)
How long will the beer keep in the keg? (EDIT: nevermind obviously you'd bottle it and start on the next batch anyway (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/grin.gif) )
How do I convince Katie to let me take over the spare room? (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/rofls.gif)
Quoting: Roadkill
Dunno what Lakelands sell it for
Yeah for the Equipment Kit and one of the cheaper Ale Beer kits.
Quoting: Roadkill
Have a look on eBay as they do the bits you need on there cheaper . . . basically you need a 25L fermentation bucket (in the kit).
The kit gives you a keg, too, but it's not ideal - if this batch goes good I'll skip the keg and go straight to bottling.
Fair doos.
EDIT: Very quick search on EBay - Seems to cover most things..
Quoting: art b
beer will keep in a keg for 5 months...with co2 added as it drains
Is that temperature dependent ?
Quoting: Roadkill
Is that temperature dependent ?
not really
i keep the keg in our kitchen [usually quite cool]and its room temp beer,
no nasties can get in and the co2 and alcohol will preserve it...(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/wink.gif)
Quoting: art b
dont buy the cheapest kit..
there are some great kits out there ..but there not the cheapest
Do you mean the equipment kit or the Beer kit itself?
What should I avoid/look out for equipment wise?
How much is the smell going to annoy Katie? (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/lol.gif)
Quoting: Incursus
So assuming you manage to produce a half decent beer, and to be fair I've had passable beers from an all in one just add water jobbie, the whole kit and caboodle (minus bottles and sugar) works out at around £65?
thb its like most hobbys..dont spend shit loads on goodies..until you know its for you ..
most people dont brew after the initial .''.it seems easy to make beer'',(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/rolleyes.gif) or if the 1st one fails..(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/sad.gif)
its mianly about the ingredients temp and sanitation,
buy...
the best beer kit [ 2 can kit] £20-£30
a brewing bucket £8
a syphon tube £5.00
and bottle into plastic ,£0
£40 and your up and running....(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/cool.gif)
see how it comes out and how tricky it is ...[not very]
then buy more stuff...(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/beavisnbutthead.gif)
its not all about making cheap grog...(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/rtfm.gif)
but a skill to improve until you have a beer thats better than most pub beer and its also cheap as chips[ which are quite expensive these days..]
Quoting: art b
and bottle into plastic ,£0
..hmm need to find someone that drinks fizzy pop (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/tongue.gif)
Quoting: Incursus
How much is the smell going to annoy Katie?
I think you've been living with her long enough that brewing beer smells are the least of her worries... (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/fart2.gif)
jeeez Louise.....
Quoting: Roadkill
Art - How do you add CO2 - by those little capsules I've seen ?
Definitely spend money on the beer kit itself . . . the equipment is fundamentally a plastic bucket . . . No major differences, there.
yes you need to top up the keg with co2, to prevent a vacum forming and air being pulled up through the tap...
yup a bucket is a bucket, the lid can be loosely fitted its only to keep derbris and flys out...you can even cover the top with a tea towel,
Quoting: Roadkill
I was toying with the idea of getting a bucket with a tap with an air lock (this is the type my Dad had in his home-brewing days).
you need to syphon the beer without introducing air, so if you have a tap you still need a tube or a'' little bottler...see'' ebay
Quoting: Incursus
..hmm need to find someone that drinks fizzy pop
a stroll on recycling nite will produce all you need , (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/up.gif)Quoting: Roadkill
Screw-top wine bottles work, too.
wrong ...wine bottles are not made to take the pressure...(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/down.gif)
Quoting: art b
a woodfordes wherry is a good, easy to do beer kit...
yeah I was looking at that one, added it to my wish list (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/wink.gif)
Quoting: Roadkill
BTW
Lakeland's sell their bottles for around £1 each (6 for £5.99) but I've found them on eBay for less (100 for £45 inc. P&P).
there free at the pub...
all pubs has to pay to dispose of their empties,
a quick word with the right person [ryan springs to mind ] and you will have enough to last a lifetime...(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/wink.gif)
i asked at our local 2 years ago and i got 50 wine bottles one weekend....(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/shame.gif)
and every time i poppped in there was a box behind the bar with 500 ml cider bottles in it waiting...(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/tongue.gif)
Quoting: F Body
Works well for me, just decanted another 2 litres of fruit Cider to put into the fridge
what cider is it marti ....a fruit kit one....(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/dontknow.gif)
is it any good ..?
its funny,
how most forums im on now have a brewing section..(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/tongue.gif)
Quoting: art b
its funny,
how most forums im on now have a brewing section.
It should be mandatory, in my opinion . . . (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/tongue.gif)
Quoting: Roadkill
With the cooler weather the garage (Brewery) is now a much happier temperature.
you can stand the fv in a water bath to regulate the temp...(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/wink.gif)
with an aquarium heater added to brew when it gets colder.....again (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/rolleyes.gif)
Quoting: Roadkill
It's been just over a week, now, in the bucket . . . hopefully Sammy's picking up a hydrometer today so I'll give it a test tonight and go from there . . .
give it a minimum of 2 weeks...(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/wink.gif)
im just sorting out a recipie and grain for the brighton brew..(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/cool.gif)
Quoting: Roadkill
Sammy got a Hydrometer from work but I've just purchased a 100ml glass trail jar off of eBay for testing.
you can put the hydro in the beer and leave it there, if you have no other use for it ...(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/wink.gif)
Quoting: FUBAR
Clear Bottles are being stockpiled for you at the Pub Dean.
there ya go ...(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/up.gif)
btw
brown bottles are better for beers,
as some beers can become light struck ..(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/wink.gif)
Quoting: Roadkill
If Art says "Brown bottles" I'd better go for brown bottles !
Thanks, Ryan !
Really?
Ok, i'll change the request at the Pub.
Quoting: FUBAR
Really?
Ok, i'll change the request at the Pub.
you hand over the empty bottles ...then you can have some full ones back for taste testing..(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/tongue.gif)
Quoting: art b
whats the hydro reading....?
Not checked it yet - what sort of numbers should I be expecting ?
Quoting: Roadkill
Not checked it yet - what sort of numbers should I be expecting ?
depending on the kit,.. and the SG [1040]
it will be around 1010 or nearby when ready to bottle...(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/up.gif)
Quoting: art b
You should get at least half way through the barrel,
before it needs a top up of co2 ..or you may get away with using none at all, it depends on how much co2 the beer is producing...
How will I know if I need to add CO2 ? Will there be a vacuum in the barrel ?
(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/dontknow.gif)
Quoting: art b
you can have one of your own free beers at the weekend..
COOL !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/beavisnbutthead.gif)
Quoting: Roadkill
How will I know if I need to add CO2 ? Will there be a vacuum in the barrel ?
it will slow down when you pour it as there will be less pressure....
it will eventually form a vacuum, and pull air in through the tap..(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/sad.gif)
They look alot like the capsules I have for my Air Pistol (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/chiny.gif)
Quoting: FUBAR
I will be at the pub Tomorrow afternoon for one reason or another if you want to pop over & collect the bottles (Bring Bags)
free stuff from pubs ....(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/beavisnbutthead.gif)
do ya see any swingtop bottles at the pub ...(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/dontknow.gif)
Quoting: F Body
I want to brew a beer with good flavor, tasting something like Pedigree or Timothy Taylor's ?
Got any ideas
TTL is a very hoppy beer ,
and not one you will copy from a kit tbh..
there are shed loads of hops in it a lot of which are added at the end of the boiling...and during fermenting,
pedigree is an easier one to copy ...the woodfordes wherry kit is similar a sort of tasty bitter but no overly hoppy,
http://www.the-home-brew-shop.co.uk/acatalog/Woodfordes_Wherry_Beer_Kit.html?gclid=CNeDgdqj37gCFaKWtAodHgUAmQ#.UfvrUByt8rg
its probably similar to the kit RK has made,
as a lot of the kits are made by the same brewers [muntons]and then badged up for different markets...
Quoting: F Body
Looks OK at £19.56 but the shipping looks steep
this is often the case, inc ebay..(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/can.gif)
you can get the woodfordes kit in wilkinsons if you have one in town,
they will get them in the store, to collect if you order them on line ...(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/cool.gif)the other option is to find a hb shop locally or somewhere your visiting...
Quoting: art b
did you prime the beer in the keg with sugar ...?
Yeah - 76g (it worked out at 2g/pint but I bottled 2 bottles separately and it asked for 80g in total).
Quoting: art b
another lid will enable co2 to be added ...
That's what I thought . . . I'll have a search . . .
Quoting: Incursus
£23 for all the kit (minus the Ale kit)
its ideal,(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/up.gif)
saves a fair bit on postage and their stuff if is usually made by youngs ,who have the market share of the market,
some tescos now have a h/b section too..(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/wink.gif)
O.K, let me put it another way. If the kit needs sugar - you'll need to buy it separately. If it doesn't - you won't.
Quoting: Incursus
Next silly question..is there anything special about the a trial jar or is it just a convenient container to float your Hyrometer?
Nothing special but I think the "exact" volumes are used for calculating the alcohol.
As Art said before - if you're not fussed just dump it in the bucket and leave it there !
Quoting: Incursus
Really? Was just reading some reviews on it and a few mentioned not having to add sugar..
a two can kit has enough fermentables not to need extra sugar ...(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/up.gif)
white sugar will sometimes give a beer a twang due to the way the yeast consumes it ,you can add brown sugars or brewing sugars ,
Quoting: Roadkill
Nothing special but I think the "exact" volumes are used for calculating the alcohol.
As Art said before - if you're not fussed just dump it in the bucket and leave it there !
bang on young brewer...(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/up.gif)
Quoting: art b
a two can kit has enough fermentables not to need extra sugar ..
Mine was a 2-can and still wanted an extra 80g of sugar. (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/wink.gif)
Quoting: Roadkill
Quoting: art b
a two can kit has enough fermentables not to need extra sugar ..
Mine was a 2-can and still wanted an extra 80g of sugar.
you will only need some priming sugar.(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/rtfm.gif)
which is minimal and can be found in the kitchen...(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/tongue.gif)
Quoting: F Body
Realizing that I've downed 38 pints in a little over two weeks, I decided to put my next purchase on hold for a couple of weeks
r u sure,
that seems a bit bloody excessive (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/shame.gif)
Quoting: art b
Quoting: art b
a two can kit has enough fermentables not to need extra sugar ..
Mine was a 2-can and still wanted an extra 80g of sugar.
you will only need some priming sugar.
which is minimal and can be found in the kitchen..
(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/dontknow.gif) Well I bought some brewers sugar anyway.
Assuming I get a chance to kick it off this weekend it should be good and ready for Brighton (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/cheers.gif) (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/up.gif)
Quoting: art b
you will only need some priming sugar.
Yup, 80g of it.
I read the instructions, three times. That's what it said.
Quoting: Roadkill
Quoting: art b
another lid will enable co2 to be added ...
That's what I thought . . . I'll have a search . . .
assuming you have a keg with a 2'' opening ,
wilkos should have a lid for your keg,and the caplets, (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/wink.gif)
get chris to have a look when hes there ...(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/chiny.gif)
Quoting: Roadkill
I was toying with the idea of getting a bucket with a tap with an air lock (this is the type my Dad had in his home-brewing days).
The bucket with the Lakelands kit just relies on you "cracking the lid" on the bucket every-now-and-then to release pressure. Seem a bit cheap.
Is there a reason you can't just drill a hole in your lid any fit one of these..?
http://www.wilko.com/home-brew/wilko-airlockrubber-bung-2pk/invt/0240201?VBMST=home%20brew
http://www.wilko.com/home-brew/wilko-handy-airlock-rubber-bung-2pk/invt/0240202?VBMST=home%20brew
Quoting: art b
hows the test tasting RK...?
Well reminded !
I was worried as there was no pressure in the keg at all. I added the valve-lid for the 8g bulbs and have varied success with those (seemed to be leaking out) ??
I've tightened the valve and put another bulb's worth in and it seems to be holding good pressure. Whereas before all the pressure had gone after 2 pints or less !!??
Definitely would be no good pouring without adding CO2.
Anyway.
The Beer.
(http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c307/Roadkill-Auto/DSC_0024_zps013d07b5.jpg)
It takes a couple of minutes to clear after pouring, got a good mid-brown colour and tastes not unlike Banks's (which is one of my current mid-price favourites).
Strength-wise I'd peg it at a solid 4% alcohol . . . maybe even a 4.5%.
Three pints of that and I'm in a similar place as I would be after drinking 4 500ml cans of Banks's.
The initial taste isn't all-that-great but quarter-way down the first pint and it becomes very more-ish. A good "anytime" beer, for sure.
Certainly comparable to Brewery Beer, but obviously not quite the same calibre.
Would definitely do this one again.
7/10. (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/up.gif)
(http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c307/Roadkill-Auto/DSC_0025_zps98335dd4.jpg)
Quoting: art b
you can also brew it with less water to give a better tasting beer
Interesting. I always use brewing sugar as it's pretty cheap, anyway.
You reckon go for 35 pints instead of 40 or less than that ???
(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/chiny.gif)
Quoting: Roadkill
Or eBay has this for £24.49 (with 20 bulbs)
How quickly are you going through the bulbs?
Quoting: Roadkill
I wasted about 3-4 getting the technique right to start with (plus the valve wasn't as tight as it could be).
I've used 9 in total and guess I'll need another 2 to get the last bit out (it'll keep for a few days with no CO2 at all so could always let the last few pints run out without pressure ?) - making 11 - but the next one I reckon I'd need 8.
you should be using less than that.(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/chiny.gif)
the natural carbonation should enable around half the contents to be dipensed,
then co2 will need to be added...around 4 bulbs would be about right,
it may depend on how much beer your drawing, in that the natural carbonation cannot keep up with the amound drunk....(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/rtfm.gif)
Quoting: art b
it may depend on how much beer your drawing, in that the natural carbonation cannot keep up with the amound drunk
Yeah you piss head (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/tongue.gif)
Quoting: Incursus
Kegs been in the garage for a week to chill out a bit...is that enough?
Give it a taste tonight. (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/dontknow.gif)
Quoting: Incursus
can I bring it back in the house or does it need to stay cold?
Mine's in the office end of the garage - about 22*C in the day and 17*C at night - it's been fine.
Quoting: Incursus
Now to leave it be for another week or 2
Another pint or two accidently poured itself into a glass over the weekend...tastes gooood. (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/confused.gif) (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/up.gif)
So much pressure though! Anymore than a 1/4 turn on the tap and I just get a jug of head, oh well best things come to those that wait (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/tongue.gif)
Quoting: Incursus
So much pressure though! Anymore than a 1/4 turn on the tap and I just get a jug of head,
so different to RKs ...(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/dontknow.gif)
it can be the cheap taps they have very little adjustment when pouring, you could try letting a bit of pressure out of the top (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/chiny.gif)
Quoting: art b
it can be the cheap taps they have very little adjustment when pouring,
Could be though I have plenty of adjustment, just that past 1/2 turn it trys to blast into space and it's foam party time (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/manynanas.gif)
Quoting: art b
you could try letting a bit of pressure out of the top
Thought about it but I will be filling a few fizzy pop bottles next week for Brighton so that should take a good chunk of pressure away, also my C02 lid hasn't arrived yet.
Quoting: Incursus
Thought about it but I will be filling a few fizzy pop bottles next week for Brighton so that should take a good chunk of pressure away, also my C02 lid hasn't arrived yet.
fair enough (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/up.gif)
Quoting: Roadkill
My First batch is long gone (barrel is cleaned ready for number two) . . . Batch #2 is currently at 1014 so I reckon another day or two and that'll be ready for barreling.
Batch #3 is set to go in the bucket straight after #2 comes out and it's had a clean.
Seems weird drinking brand-label beer, now.
good to hear it ...its a bit special opening something you have made..(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/cool.gif)
home brewing has come on a lot since the60's/ 70's so im told,
when the kits were cheap and info was thin on the ground
the tinterweb has greatly improved the amount of help available to get some thing palatable. [youtube is full of stuff(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/wink.gif)]
there are some very good specialist beer type kits out there that cost a bit more but get great results,
which is probably the way to go once you have mastered the basics, cleaning temps, bottling etc (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/wink.gif)
Quoting: Incursus
Had another 1/2 pint tester last night, much clearer now, will have been in the barrel 2 weeks on Friday
theres little, much better than pouring beer from a barrel and paying nowt..(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/beavisnbutthead.gif)
Quoting: Roadkill
Batch #2 is currently at 1014 so I reckon another day or two and that'll be ready for barreling.
Was at 1012 last night so I'm hoping tonight . . . (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/up.gif)
Quoting: Roadkill
(I don't think the plastic one I currently have will last long - it's a bit $hit).
Yeah mine turned up doesn't seem great quality but will see how it goes.
Ordered a capper as well - £10 from Wilko's
Quoting: art b
theres little, much better than pouring beer from a barrel and paying nowt..
Well not entirely as the initial equipment outlay brings this batch up to around £1.80 a pint but the next batch should be more like 50p / pint (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/up.gif)
Quoting: art b
ive one of the plastic injectors and its lasted ages
That's the one I've got but the threads are already a little chewed up. I'll keep it as a spare - sensible with two kegs on the go.
Quoting: Incursus
3 x 2Ltr bottles filled and 3 pints for me...about a 3rd left in the keg still ridiculous amount of pressure and head, took me ages to fill the bottles.
will be time to consider another beer...(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/chiny.gif)
Quoting: Incursus
Kegs been in the garage for a week to chill out a bit...is that enough? can I bring it back in the house or does it need to stay cold?
Ordered a C02 lid and bulbs as well, just in case.
yup the period of letting it chill is supposed to allow the co2 produced,
to absorb back into the liquid..(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/up.gif)
and chilling will make the beer clear by slowing down any yeast activity...
my keg of ''gaggin for it'' has been in the garage for 2 weeks on the cold concrete floor and is nice and fizzy and a lot clearer than it was 2 weeks ago..(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/cool.gif)
Quoting: Incursus
FYI the Wherry kits are currently on offer in Wilko's at £16...so I stocked up
thats a good price ..beats getting it posted too..(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/up.gif)
i do like the wherry beer..(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/cool.gif)
Quoting: Incursus
FYI the Wherry kits are currently on offer in Wilko's at £16...so I stocked up
Will try to have a look tomorrow at the one in Bletchley (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/chiny.gif)
Meanwhile . . .
I started my second yesterday at 3 weeks mature. Very good, just like the last . . . got about a pint out before the pressure dropped (like the last) so cracked the lid to get a few pints out before using the CO2.
Will happily do this another time but am on the look out for something different next.
The third batch is now two weeks mature. It's a one-can kit. It's O.K, but really nothing special . . . it tastes like home-brew whereas the other tastes like a shop-bought one.
One thing the one-can kit has, though, is pressure. Even carefully pouring a pint produces 50% head . . . and I had to release pressure several times as the keg was proper bloated after just a day of it being in there.
Have no intention of doing this one again - it's O.K - but that's it.
I made a little rack to put my kegs on last night . . . .
It's a pretty sight . . .
(http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c307/Roadkill-Auto/DSC_0105_zps9d6e79ca.jpg)
Quoting: Roadkill
Will happily do this another time but am on the look out for something different next.
allegedly wilcos have some good new kits in at around £16
milestone dark galleon..(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/wink.gif)
Quoting: Incursus
I'm planning on priming in the keg, then using it to fill a load of bottles, this will mean the keg maybe half empty or less for the second stage...do I just use one of the CO2 jobbies?
you will need to top up as the pressure drops ,
or a vacuum will form and air will get pulled in through the tap...
just thinking aloud ...(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/chiny.gif)
if you pressurised the keg after filling it,
with co2 caps you should then be able to fill bottles,
the carbonating sugar [which you would add in solution] to the keg,in the beer will carbonte the bottles as there stored..(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/dontknow.gif)
a roundabout way but could work ..(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/chiny.gif)
Quoting: art b
the carbonating sugar [which you would add in solution] to the keg,in the beer will carbonte the bottles as there stored..
That's my thinking, just think it may be easier than putting sugar in each bottle and using the syphon to fill the bottles..
Quoting: art b
if you pressurised the keg after filling it,
with co2 caps you should then be able to fill bottles,
I was just thinking of leaving the lid off for the bottle filling and letting gravity do the work, then put a co2 cap on if there is any left in the keg...or I'll just find some more bottles and start the next lot of beer off. (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/lol.gif)
Quoting: Incursus
I was just thinking of leaving the lid off for the bottle filling and letting gravity do the work, then put a co2 cap on if there is any left in the keg...
That should work. CO2 is heavier than air so as long as we're not talking ages it shouldn't do any harm.
?
I'll let the expert add his 2c, though.
EDIT
Unless the beer, being "flat" without added CO2 would go off in the bottles as they'd be some air in there ???
(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/dontknow.gif)
Quoting: Roadkill
Unless the beer, being "flat" without added CO2 would go off in the bottles as they'd be some air in there ???
Well the mixture will have just been primed with sugar so should create it's own CO2 in the bottle, I'm just using the keg as a bottling bucket but may not bottle it all.
http://www.howtobrew.com/section1/chapter1-3.html
4. Combine beer and priming sugar. The best method for preparing the beer and priming sugar solution is to use a separate container the same size as your fermentor as a "bottling bucket." Clean and sanitize it and pour the priming solution into it. Next, siphon the beer from the fermentor into the bottling bucket. Don't simply pour the beer into the bucket, and don't let the beer splash as you siphon it in. Instead, put the end of the siphon under the surface of the beer as it fills. The swirling motion of the beer as it enters the bucket will be sufficient to evenly mix the priming solution into the beer without aeration.
If you don't have a bottling bucket, you can gently pour the priming solution into the fermentor and gently stir it. Allow the sediment in the fermentor to settle for 15-30 minutes before proceeding. You can fill the bottles using the bottle filler attachment on your siphon.
5. Bottle. Carefully fill the bottles with the primed beer, place a sanitized bottle cap on each bottle, and crimp it using the bottle capper. At this stage it is helpful to have a friend operate the capper while you fill the bottles.
Quoting: Incursus
Started off my next batch of Wherry yesterday
Lively batch this one, came home on Monday to find the lid on the verge of going pop! Still distorted even after I let the pressure out (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/lol.gif)
Quoting: Incursus
Lively batch this one, came home on Monday to find the lid on the verge of going pop! Still distorted even after I let the pressure out
its strange how they all ferment differently (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/dontknow.gif)
just make sure its not too warm [unlikely now] as a fast ferment isnt good for taste ,
Quoting: Incursus
Just in time as the hydrometer reads 1010
Only 1014 this time after 2 weeks maybe because the weather has been a little cooler?, to be fair the kit say it should be at 1014 so hopefully ok. I would have left it another few days but I wouldn't have the time to bottle it for a couple of weekends
All bottled and in a warm place for a couple of days now.
Start point was 1040 so I reckon about 3.5% for this batch.
Will kick off the next Wherry batch (destined for the keg) hopefully on Tuesday or while I'm "Working Smarter" on Thursday though I do need to pick up a large bucket and a aquarium heater before then now that the average temp in the brewery is well below 18*C.
That lot should keep me in beer till the new year..maybe (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/cheers.gif)
All St. Peter's Ales come in funny Oval bottles. I've not seen the Ruby Red on the shelves before, though.
Quoting: Roadkill
Will be purchasing my 3rd Keg later this month . . . .
I'm going to buy a "King Keg" for my next one as my new, intended set-up will resemble that of a pub. (I'm planning on having 3 kegs in the shed, but hopefully running pipes and taps into the garage).
FYI
If this works I'll be looking to sell my other standard kegs after they're empty.
(One's had two batches in, the other one batch. Both have Co2 Lids.)
Quoting: Incursus
I do need to pick up a large bucket and a aquarium heater
Ordered the heater £7. Will pick up a 40l bucket from Aldi tomorrow (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/up.gif)
Quoting: Roadkill
If this works I'll be looking to sell my other standard kegs after they're empty.
(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/chiny.gif)
I'll take the free one you got from Sammy (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/lol.gif) (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/tongue.gif)
Quoting: Roadkill
Trick is to pull back the rubber band that acts as a pressure release valve to stop the pressure building up too much.
yup
good point
the rubber band wont really give until the keg is at bursting point..(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/can.gif)
Quoting: Roadkill
I'm going to buy a "King Keg" for my next one as my new, intended set-up will resemble that of a pub. (I'm planning on having 3 kegs in the shed, but hopefully running pipes and taps into the garage).
the lad never does things in halves.....(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/rofls.gif)
a few people do that, run pipes from the garage into the kitchen....(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/cool.gif)
you may need to consider cornies ,which are s/steel soft drink dispensing vessels that have a co2 distribution system, it all gets a bit involved then ..(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/chiny.gif)
heres some ideas...
http://www.google.co.uk/search?q=homebrew+corny+keg+setup&client=safari&rls=en&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=02dcUqXyGcPG0QX75oHgBA&ved=0CAkQ_AUoAQ&biw=1448&bih=862&dpr=1
you would probably have to consider pipe cleaning if you have runs of piping..(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/confused.gif)
Quoting: Cunning Plan
http://geekologie.com/2013/10/tabletop-beer-brewing-machine-the-size-o.php
That's pretty cool, but I get the impression that most home-brewers not only like to make their own beer, but also like to make their own equipment, too.
You'd have to make a few thousand pints to get your money back on that !
(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/tongue.gif)
Quoting: Roadkill
Here's hoping for an awesome Beer !
(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/up.gif)
My Hops arrived from the malt miller yesterday and the aquarium heater last week. (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/cool.gif)
Just need to pickup a big bucket today to start the next brew.
Quoting: art b
welcome to the darkside ...
i feel like i have converted you both
(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/up.gif)
Started the next batch on Saturday with an aquarium heater set-up. This lot will get a Hop tea infusion at bottling (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/cheers.gif)
The last lot bottled 2 weeks ago is still slightly cloudy but has good carbonation and taste.
only 28 bottles remain for the firework party...My sister in law drank it all at yesterday.. (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/confused.gif)
Quoting: art b
the hop tea will improve the taste ..
Indeed I haven't decided whether to open both vac-pack bags and do a blend or just one of them...either way I think you said they freeze well?
Quoting: art b
ya sis inlaw sounds like a Wineo
To be fair she only had two, my brother and Dad had a bottle each as well. (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/cheers.gif)
Quoting: Incursus
Quoting: art b
ya sis inlaw sounds like a Wineo
(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/rofls.gif)
i usually just use one ,(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/up.gif)
do one brew with one type then the next with another and you will get a taste of each type
it may be hard to tell a difference ..
Quoting: Roadkill
pity Lakeland don't do King Kegs . .
you should be suggesting it ,(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/rtfm.gif)
as a chief product tester ...(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/wink.gif)
Quoting: Incursus
Fair enough I'll start with the Fuggles....cos I like the name
Mmm just poured the first couple of pints, the hop tea has certainly changed the taste, for the better. Still a little cloudy though..(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/chiny.gif) (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/cheers.gif)
Quoting: Roadkill
I had a pint of the Ruby Red last night . . . I had one nearly two weeks ago but it was still cloudy . . .
The one last night was awesome !
Clear, a little fruity, yet hoppy, too. I closed my eyes and I could've been in a cosy little tavern some place.
Cool, now if you can get Lakeland to stock it before Xmas I'll add it to my letter to Santa (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/up.gif)
Quoting: FUBAR
The rebate for the bottles from the brewery is rubbish (£3.54 per 16 bottles) but Anne has agreed if I give her a fiver for the same this is cool.
Any of you guys interested? (only if you want them yourselves, no selling them on please ) same price £5 per 16 bottles and includes a handy Crate I think too!! which Is probably worth a fiver by itself
1 case is available now.
(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/chiny.gif)
Yeah I'll take that crate and another when available (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/up.gif)
Quoting: Roadkill
I had a pint of the Ruby Red last night . . . I had one nearly two weeks ago but it was still cloudy . . .
The one last night was awesome !
Clear, a little fruity, yet hoppy, too. I closed my eyes and I could've been in a cosy little tavern some place.
It's taken nearly 4 weeks in the barrel to get to this stage but it's been worth it.
The IPA is nearly 3 weeks mature, again is still cloudy and as Art posted, is a little Bitter. I don't plan to try this again until mid-December.
The Golden Ale stalled a bit in the bucket and has needed some encouragement to get it to 1014 . . . she was at 1016/1015 last night so I'm hoping to barrel it tonight . . . . it's been in the bucket, now, for over 2 weeks . . . !
it all sounds good
it can take a while for the brews to mature ...(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/can.gif)
if you get a brew that wont ferment out or gets slow
you can add a yeast nutrient,
the werry can often get stuck after a week at around 1014 and a teaspoon of nutrient will help the yeast get working..(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/wink.gif)
Quoting: art b
the werry can often get stuck after a week at around 1014
If you follow the instructions your supposed to bottle at 1014 (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/dontknow.gif)
Just started a Wilco own brand as the werry has gone up to £22 (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/down.gif)
Quoting: Incursus
If you follow the instructions your supposed to bottle at 1014
Just started a Wilco own brand as the werry has gone up to £22
it will go down to 2012 as far as i know.
the wilco stuff gets some good reviews, (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/up.gif)
i switched my brewing to all grain as its cheaper per pint,
and is an interestin precess,
but tbh i/we dont drink that much per week ... (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/rolleyes.gif)
will make it all worth while at xmas though ..(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/beavisnbutthead.gif)
Quoting: Incursus
Yeah I'll take that crate and another when available
Quoting: Roadkill
I think I'll take one, too. No rush, though.
Ok cool, i'll sort them out at the pub, not sure how I'm going to get them home yet...
Quoting: FUBAR
Ok cool, i'll sort them out at the pub, not sure how I'm going to get them home yet..
I'm sure I can pop in for a pint or two...(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/cheers.gif)
Oh and could probably pick up the bottles at the same time if it helps.(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/lol.gif)
Quoting: art b
yeast nutrient
Got a linky ? (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/up.gif)
Quoting: FUBAR
not sure how I'm going to get them home yet...
Can collect - but it won't be the Caddy this time. (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/tongue.gif)
Quoting: Roadkill
I'm not sure if Lakeland's are stocking it yet . . .
Can't see it on the website but will keep an eye out.
Quoting: Roadkill
If they do stock it Sammy can get you a discount . . . . 20-25% I think.
(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/cool.gif)
Quoting: Incursus
I've got one barrel of Wilkos Ale + Fuggles that's just finishing off a 14 day chill out in the Garage, I will probably bring it in tomorrow as I'm out of beer!
Hmm definitely needs at least another week.
Quoting: Incursus
Can't see it on the website but will keep an eye out.
Apparently they're not planning on stocking it . . . yet.
This is good news for me as it means there'll be more options for me to product test !
Quoting: Roadkill
This is good news for me as it means there'll be more options for me to product test !
Hmm not quite sure...I'll have to try another.. (http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/up.gif)
Quoting: Roadkill
I'm just finishing off a free 25-pint brew-in-the-bag jobbie that Lakeland made up for Christmas which was never drank . . . surprisingly not bad, considering, the taste is O.K, but there's little "depth" . . . still, it was free and already made ! I just had to leave it to settle for a couple of weeks after it was kicked about by Samantha.
Turns out there was another one made up that was never started.
BAM !
More free, ready brewed Beer !
(http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c307/Roadkill-Auto/IMAG1193_zpsjxjykof4.jpg)
I was careful with this last one, so I didn't shake it up too much . . . . Hopefully it'll be clear by Friday as that's when the one on the left will run out.
This new one should carry me nicely to when my 3 kegs are matured.
(http://www.mkb.cc/forum/smileys/up.gif)