Expert: John Snyder - 6/17/2008

Question
Hello John, I'm a can brewer wanting to get the very best from this simple method. Would you kindly itemize the most important things in obtaining the very best beer flavor possible. Is the PH of water important for can brewing ? Is it better to boil all the water or what about filtered water ? Which has better taste between liquid yeast and dry yeast. Which brands are your personal favorites ? What is best for sterilizing equipment and bottles ? I seem to get a fair beer but its never really as good or should I say tasty as commercial beer. What is the true secret on beer taste ??
Thanks, Tony

Answer
I'm not sure what you mean by "can brewer"can you elaborate?
                Brewing
1-good ingredients,and properly prepared
2-close control of temperature,and time
3-control of water Ph,for mashing.
4-good wort boiling
5-hopping        


                  Fermentation
1-wort cooling
2-aeration
3-yeast
4-tight control of temperature,during the fermentation period

                 Maturation(aging)
1-flavor development
2-temperature control
3-control air pick up,during transfer of product


                 Packaging
1-tight air control
2-good carbonation
3-cold temps.

Note:Ph of water is most important

Liquid yeast is the preference,and should be kept at 32F

Water does not have to be boiled,before using in the brewing process,nor filtered,but must be free of chlorine.


                     Cleaning-Sterilizing
Go to this website,it best describes these methods for the home brewer:  http://www.realbeer.com/jjpalmer/cleaning.html#terms

    I'm a light beer drinker,and my favorite is Micklelob Light Draft beer.

             Hope I addressed your inquiries sastisfactorily
                       John