Expert: Matt Dick - 11/10/2011

Question
Hi,
I've had a beer kit from Mr. Beer for a few years now, and I've quite enjoyed it.  However, I want to have some more control over what I brew and not be limited by their selection.  Can you point me in the direction of some good resources for this?

Answer
Great news that you're ready to branch out and try moving forward in your brewing.

I think the best basic brewing book is The Complete Joy of Homebrewing.

There will be those who will tell you that Papazian is wrong about this or that, but I think the real genius in this book is the approachability.  You cannot be intimidated by the brewing process if you read this book and brew a few of his recipes.

In fact, the his Sparrow Hawk Porter is the base of the recipe of my favorite beer to brew.  I substitute a chocolate malt where he calls for black patent, and I've increased the hops steadily over the years, but I definitely owe my Chocolate Hawk Porter to this book.

I've heard great things about The Brewmaster's Bible, but I haven't cracked it open in years.

And there are other books, "How to Brew: Everything You Need To Know To Brew Beer Right The First Time" and there's even a Dummies book on brewing.

Aside from that, find a local homebrew store (where do you live?), or a brewing club and just talk to the folks behind the counter or at an event.  Home brewers are really a helpful, friendly bunch who love to help a newcomer.  Just seeing another person brew once through is the best way to learn the process.

In terms of equipment and supplies, I have a local store or two so I've only purchased stuff on line a few times but my experiences have all been positive, so don't be shy about getting stuff delivered.

When you get further along, we can go into specifics like decisions about bottling, recipes, etc.

Good luck!