Merkin
Active Member
Greetings all.
I started brewing way back in the 80s, when my appetite for beer was only exceeded by the size of my mortgage, hence it made economic sense to put my cold cellar to some good use.
Although I only ever brewed from kits, I had a good production line going to ensure I always had a beer available to drink, and learnt the essentials of cleanliness and temperature.
Fast forward 30 years, mortgage is long paid off, and the creative urge started kicking in, but alas no cellar. Throwing caution to the wind, I managed to pick up a complete set of gear from someone whose GP advised him to no longer drink. I still didn't know how or where I could start my first brew, until I discovered an Ink Bird among the kit. A quick read up and a visit to Curry's to get my fridge, and I'm now just finishing my first fermentation of the century.
My first glass will be in commiseration with the poor soul whose drinking has ended, but who inspired my brewing future, so new generations could enjoy Chris' Old Cloudy.
During my absence, it seems a far wider range of equipment and ingredients is now available, albeit with far fewer High Street outlets.
I guess this is the way of the world, although I'm quite happy not spending every other lunchtime in Boots any more.
Very happy to join the forum - looking forward to getting back up to speed.
I started brewing way back in the 80s, when my appetite for beer was only exceeded by the size of my mortgage, hence it made economic sense to put my cold cellar to some good use.
Although I only ever brewed from kits, I had a good production line going to ensure I always had a beer available to drink, and learnt the essentials of cleanliness and temperature.
Fast forward 30 years, mortgage is long paid off, and the creative urge started kicking in, but alas no cellar. Throwing caution to the wind, I managed to pick up a complete set of gear from someone whose GP advised him to no longer drink. I still didn't know how or where I could start my first brew, until I discovered an Ink Bird among the kit. A quick read up and a visit to Curry's to get my fridge, and I'm now just finishing my first fermentation of the century.
My first glass will be in commiseration with the poor soul whose drinking has ended, but who inspired my brewing future, so new generations could enjoy Chris' Old Cloudy.
During my absence, it seems a far wider range of equipment and ingredients is now available, albeit with far fewer High Street outlets.
I guess this is the way of the world, although I'm quite happy not spending every other lunchtime in Boots any more.
Very happy to join the forum - looking forward to getting back up to speed.
and brew some quality beer.
