All About Beer Magazine - Volume 36, Issue 3
July 1, 2015 By

Experimental Homebrewing Book

There comes a point in most homebrewers’ lives when they just want to step out from under the elementary brewing techniques. Perhaps this means moving from extract to all-grain. The change in processes seems relatively straightforward, but the results fail to meet expectations. Maybe they want to nail the perfect IPA or re-create something encountered while on a beercation, but can’t seem to master it.

Regardless of the cause, if you are a homebrewer who feels that you are not getting the most out of your brewing efforts/dreams, then this is the book for you.

Veteran homebrewers Drew Beechum and Denny Conn have penned a game-changing book. Experimental Homebrewing (Voyageur Press, Paperback, $24.99, 240 pp) begins with the writers looking over their shoulders as they work their magic in their own “brewery.”

A great experiential lesson, this is the opening to a different brewing philosophy where the authors urge simplicity and restraint from adding elements until there are too many. Mastering the art of homebrew simplicity creates the predisposition for successful experiments: SMaSH (Single Malt and Single Hop) brewing!

The remainder of the book describes how to elevate your game by completely understanding each ingredient, every piece of equipment, each step in the process. The pair brings a balanced understanding of the art and the science of brewing. With extensive lists of tips, not to mention lavish photos, this has become an essential reference book for the dedicated homebrewer.