John Brewster is a passionate homebrewer with over a decade of experience experimenting with different beer styles. After working at three craft breweries and winning several regional homebrew competitions, John now dedicates his time to developing innovative recipes and teaching brewing techniques. His specialty lies in creating unique flavor profiles by combining traditional brewing methods with unexpected ingredients. When not tending to his five fermenters, John enjoys pairing his creations with artisanal cheeses and hosting tasting sessions for friends and family.
Master wort dilution techniques to hit your target original gravity every time. Our interactive calculator helps you precisely adjust high-gravity wort, maximize equipment, and create consistent, balanced beer. Perfect for both correction and strategic high-gravity brewing. Ever found yourself staring…
Master precise mash temperatures with our strike water calculator. Learn the science and formulas behind perfect strike water temp for consistent, high-quality homebrew results. If you’ve ever experienced the disappointment of missing your target mash temperature, you know how crucial…
Discover the critical impact of fermentation temperatures on your homebrew’s quality, flavor profile, and overall success. Learn the science behind each fermentation phase and how to manage temperatures like a pro for consistently excellent beer. Have you ever brewed two…
Learn how to make authentic apple cider vinegar from scratch with our complete DIY guide. Discover the two-stage fermentation process, equipment needed, and step-by-step instructions for creating homemade ACV with the ‘mother’. Perfect for beginners looking to craft this versatile kitchen staple using whole apples or apple scraps.
American Pale Ale Style: Pale Ale | ABV: 5.5% | Difficulty: Intermediate By John Brewster | Updated: April 7, 2025 Brew Time 6 hrs + 2 weeks ABV 5.5% IBU 35 Ferment Temp 18-20°C Difficulty Intermediate American Pale Ale (APA)…
“Master brewing an authentic Belgian Tripel at home with our comprehensive guide. Learn the secrets behind this golden abbey ale’s complex flavors, from selecting the perfect yeast strain to achieving that signature dry finish. Complete with a competition-winning recipe, step-by-step brewing instructions, and expert troubleshooting tips. Perfect for intermediate homebrewers looking to craft a Belgian classic.
Master brewing temperature control techniques to achieve consistent, high-quality beers. Learn about fermentation temperature profiles, equipment options, and troubleshooting methods for homebrewers of all levels. Why Temperature Control Makes or Breaks Your Brew Walk into any professional brewery and you’ll…
When I first started homebrewing over a decade ago, I was perfectly content with extract brewing. The simplicity, consistency, and relatively quick brew day made it an ideal entry point into the world of beer making. But after a couple…
Discover 15 common first-time brewing mistakes and expert solutions to avoid them. Learn essential tips on sanitization, fermentation temperature, yeast management, and more for better homebrew results. The journey into homebrewing often begins with excitement and anticipation—visions of sharing your…
Discover the 7 essential homebrewing steps every beginner needs to master to create a successful first batch of beer. Our ultimate guide covers equipment, ingredients, and expert brewing techniques. There’s something magical about pouring a glass of beer you’ve crafted…