Dave Hopson

Dave Hopson is a certified Cicerone® and beer historian who has visited over 200 breweries across 15 countries. With a background in anthropology and culinary arts, Dave brings a unique perspective to understanding beer’s cultural significance. He specializes in documenting regional brewing traditions and how they’ve evolved with modern craft movements. His research on indigenous fermentation practices has been featured in several brewing publications. Dave hosts the popular podcast “Hop Tales,” where he interviews brewers about their cultural inspirations and brewing philosophies.

How to Carbonate Mead Naturally

Learn how to carbonate mead naturally with our comprehensive guide covering bottle conditioning, equipment selection, and troubleshooting tips for creating perfectly sparkling honey wine at home. The first time I popped open a bottle of my own naturally carbonated mead,…

Read more

Best Books on Brewing and Fermentation

Discover the essential brewing and fermentation books every homebrewer needs, from beginner guides to advanced references. Expert recommendations on beer brewing, wild fermentation, and specialized techniques to elevate your brewing skills. Navigating the world of brewing and fermentation literature can…

Read more

The Complete Guide to IBU and ABV

Discover the relationship between IBU and ABV in beer with our interactive scatter chart. Learn how bitterness and alcohol content balance across different beer styles, from light lagers to imperial stouts. Explore flavor profiles, food pairings, and the science behind…

Read more

What Makes a Beer Truly “Artisanal”?

Discover what truly defines artisanal beer beyond marketing hype. Learn the authentic characteristics of craft brewing from ingredients and processes to community impact and how to identify genuine artisanal beers in an increasingly crowded marketplace. You’ve likely seen the word…

Read more

How to Make Sparkling Beet Kvass

Learn how to make authentic sparkling beet kvass at home with our step-by-step guide. Discover this traditional Eastern European fermented drink’s simple brewing process, health benefits, and flavor variations. Perfect for beginners seeking a probiotic-rich, naturally carbonated beverage with minimal equipment.

Read more

How to Brew a Hefeweizen (German Wheat Beer)

Master brewing authentic German Hefeweizen at home with our complete guide. Learn the secrets to perfect banana and clove flavors, step-by-step brewing instructions, and expert tips for this classic wheat beer style. Discover traditional techniques to create a refreshing, cloudy Hefeweizen with the perfect balance of flavors.

Read more