How to Brew

I found this book to be very informative. I took a 20 year break from brewing, and thought I would like to get back to it, so I bought this book. Read it in its entirety before getting started back into it, and glad I did, it had a lot more in depth information that was extremely helpful. I will still be able to learn from this book for years to come.

When it comes to "how to" or books that in general are for self-teaching I like to leave reviews because its very hard to find a trustworthy source and also there is the idea that maybe a good review was "bought" or made by someone who is well versed in the subject. Here is my novice opinion. For those who are getting into homebrewing, it was a wonderful resource. I've done it before and now I'm back at it with a vengeance, so I wanted more of an insight on the process (especially because this hobby gets really expensive really fast). The book is very straight forward with its concepts as well as its modes of instruction are step by step (with pictures). Another great thing is for those who are just getting into this craft, you can use the chapters independently to understand what you need to know now, and the later chapters can be used when you're looking into going towards more advanced brewing (like all-grain). It really does provide the perfect balance of, 1) "Just show me what I need to know" 2) "here are some hidden tricks" 3) "here is what you're going to need for more advanced steps" 4) "Hey, we understand you're probably not a chemist, but here is the low-down of the chemistry anyway if you want it" The book is very well balanced and chapters of it aren't dependent on others. If you want to know more about water, go to the water chapter. If you want to know more about All-Grain brewing, go to the All-Grain brewing chapter. Its a great and interesting read cover to cover, but its also a great resource to open back up, refresh your mind, and then get back to it.

I received this book a few weeks ago. I am a person who "learns by doing," but with that being said educating myself a little in advance saves a lot of unnecessary error. This book allows for my intended method as well as others. If you are not the patient type, you can use the first chapter to get started. However, the author recommends reading the first.. 10 chapters I believe to really learn the process. Beyond that it seems like there is a wealth of knowledge on techniques and advancing your mastery. Some of the 4 star reviews complain it's not simple enough, but to be frank I don't see anything on the cover that suggests the bar will be set on the ground. He says early on if you can follow a recipe to bake muffins you can make beer using this guide, and I find that to be true. I can't imagine there is anything I will need to learn to continue making beer that this book doesn't offer other than specific recipes perhaps. If you want to learn about brewing, buy this book. Best bang for your buck.

The book starts with an easy guide to producing a quality home brew for the first time. It explains the basics. It explores extract brews (the ones you buy in cans), and all grain. It helps demystify the transition between the two. It then explains the subtleties of brewing ingredients, what they do, and how to manipulate them for the best results. The appendices describe how to make your own brewing equipment. I am constantly rereading, and applying the explanations to my brewing results. Well recommended.

This book is up to date with everything you want for homebrewing. Palmer knows his stuff, I would dare to say he might even be the new Papazian (all brewers praise his name). This has everything from the history to how to brew most styles, and even gives you ideas how to create your own. The only thing I could see that might turn people off is how in depth and technical Palmer gets in some chapters. His in depth research into yeast creation rather bored me. Some people like that stuff though. I just want to brew. Stay calm, relax, and have a homebrew!

This is the absolute, number one, must have book for anyone considering getting into homebrewing. It is a must-have for first-time and seasoned brewers alike. Between the internet and the natural mystery that is brewing, there is so much misinformation and myth out there about brewing. Palmer tackles every step, ingredient, and technique with unbelievable objectivity, helpfully separating fact and fiction. Not only has this book increased my appreciation for beer, it has given me with the confidence to use techniques and make decisions that allow me take control of the brewing process. I'm able to achieve my desired results and make beer that I love. Relative to some other brewing books How To Brew doesn't exactly contain a ton of recipes, and they are somewhat basic. But I come back to them time and time again, using them as a solid foundation for almost every single beer I make.

I have been brewing for 8 years and still learn something every time I look through this book. If you are new to brewing, there are a few chapters that will get you up and running very successfully without feeling lost in the weeds. As you gain experience, you can go back through different topics and tweak your brewing efforts to make even higher quality beer. As anyone will tell you, Mr. Palmer's book is a defining landmark for the field. If you don't experience this book to be helpful you should probably find a different hobby!

Great value

great information !

Contiene un gran numero di dati dal punto di vista chimico e fisico sulla produzione della birra fatta in casa, la lettura è dunque lunga ma nel complesso spiega veramente bene tutto quello che c'è da sapere. Ovviamente solo per chi conosce la lingua inglese.

Amazing book if starting you journey in the beer world. Easy to read and understand, but very complete

A bible for home brewing. The book is famous amongst home brewers for a very good reason

A book for every brewer. A bit technical, but good info..