Brewer's Friend

Archive for February, 2010

Hops Alpha Acid Table 2009

Saturday, February 27th, 2010

Updated for the 2009 harvest.  New varieties added - thanks to everyone who wrote in! Alpha Acids from hops contribute to the bitterness in beer. During the boil alpha acids are isomerized and increase international bittering units (IBUs). This site has an IBU calculator. Hops also contain beta acids, which contribute to ...

Digital Thermometer for Brewing

Saturday, February 6th, 2010

A handy tool in brewing is a digital thermometer. When it comes to all grain brewing this is a must to accurately monitor and maintain the desired mash temperature. It also helps to know when boil is approaching ("a watched pot never boils..."). I keep this handy ...