A small batch aka 1st run beer!

FleetingSmoke · Aug 29, 2022

Minbari said:
quite a few people here do small batches, @Sunfire96 is one, for sure.

just make sure when buying equipment, if you think you will want to do 5 gal batches to get stuff that will support it. you can put 2 gallons in a 5 gallon fermentor and not hurt anything.

one thing that has helped me with getting better is sharing my product with other people and getting feedback. the entire chiropractic office I go to gets samples every batch, lol.

Yeah I found a complete 5 gallon kit for 134 at my local shop

Zambi · Aug 29, 2022

Do you have a hydrometer?
You can always make some adjustments when you see you are way out.
Boil longer if OG too low or add some sugar (just remember you bitterness changes if you boil longer and not adjust hop addition timings)
Add water if OG is too high
Have fun

Sandy Feet · Aug 29, 2022

Lots of people make Pale Ales with more flavor hops now. If trying to learn something, I might do some sort of a 60 or 45 minute addition and maybe a late 10 minute addition trying to aim for IBUs somewhere in the mid to upper 40s. There are numerous philosophies for hoppy beers these days, but that is at least simple.
If you want to learn and not worry about water profiles, use bottled spring water, especially with that small of a recipe.
Take notes about your boil off rate for the future.