Tonight I’m brewing up a second attempt at an amber ale.  My first try was my third batch ever.  I wasn’t very happy with it and ended up giving most of it away.  Everyone who got some liked it, but it wasn’t up to my standards.  I hadn’t yet learned the importance of taking good [...]

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Yesterday I bottled my california common - I’m calling it “SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) Ale.”  It brings up thoughts of smooth summer lagers and warmer days ahead - but still has enough body to get us through the rest of winter.  It’s my prescription for SAD and a seemingly loooong winter.
It has a very nice [...]

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I had the good fortune to pick up a Barnes and Noble gift card for my birthday.  Based on the recommendations of others, here’s what is on the way:
The Homebrewer’s Garden: How to Easily Grow, Prepare, and Use Your Own Hops, Malts, Brewing Herbs
Farmhouse Ales: Culture and Craftsmanship in the Belgian Tradition
Brewing Classic Styles: 80 [...]

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