Well, it’s been a while since I posted, but I’m finally back with another round from the Champion Brewery. Since it’s a bit cool this time of year, and since I’m a cheap bastard, I decided to get a lager recipe from the local brew store to try out. This was my first attempt at such a recipe, and I was very nervous how it was going to turn out. Thankfully, it’s as good as it looks:
I would like to call this photo "Beer Still Life No. 7".
You see, brewing lagers in the winter fits right in with my ‘frugal’ attitudes. Lagers are a bit different because the yeast likes cooler temperatures-perfect for this time of year and my cheap-self who likes to keep the house cool (Put on an extra sweater if you’re cold!). So I’m sure the little yeastybuddies were pretty happy to be sitting in the closet for a couple of weeks. Anyways, the guy at the brew shop said that I should wait at least 2 weeks to let it ferment and then wait another month after bottling to try it. Well, of course the waiting is the hardest part of the process, so I ended up letting it ferment for about 10 days (after I saw there was no action going on in the airlock) and then waiting another 12 days before I opened it. Who the hell can wait for a month with beer sitting in their closet waiting to be drunk?!? So last night I took out a couple and put them in the fridge.
Well, lo and behold this beer tasted extremely good. It’s similar to a lager such as a Beck’s or St. Pauli’s Girl, both of which I enjoy. But I think my batch actually has a little more flavor and is just a tad bit heavier than those, which I like. This is not very hoppy at all. I am really not a huge fan of hops; I prefer wheat beers and light ales to an IPA, so this came out just like I like it. As you can see, I served it (to myself) nice and cold and enjoyed the rich taste. I will definitely put this on the list to try again next winter. It’s definitely drinkable. Until the next batch, keep drinking!
Whoa – I think I’ve found your very first Manterest pin right here, buddy! I have to part with you on the IPA though – love IPAs… especially a good dogfishhead 90 min. IPA (or their killer 120 min. IPA that’s not available in stores, at least not that I know of)… MMMM… makes me want to get one right now.
Fred @ One Project Closer recently posted..Build a Shed, Day 2: Subfloor, Framing, and Siding
Ha! Yes! All you need now is some photos of bikini-clad women serving you beer (A refreshing wheat beer, naturally). Gives new meaning to ‘studs’.
Yep, we need a week to get some images, have a pin party, and take over pinterest. Until, you know, 5 minutes later when the 45,000 scarves and 12,000 teddy bears with lame phrases on their bellies takes over again.
I Look forward to reading about some of your projects. Well, drooling over what I wish I could accomplish. Thanks for reading!