Jim's Beer Kit

I think refrigeration is the key. I successfully used a packet of Safale SO4 that had been at the bottom of the fridge for nearly 4 years. Made up a starter first then pitched in a stout kit (only made to 24 pints no added sugars) turned out okay.

Anyone remember the "dry kits" from Youngs? My dad used to swear by them in the 70/80s. He only used to make up to 24 pints as the dried ME and hops supplied weren't really up to making 40 pints.

Thanks for the replies everyone

With half a dozen successful A.G. ales done I'm now about to do my first lager. I have up to 7 Kg of lager malt and some Hallertauer Hersbrucker hops I'll be using White Labs WLP830 German Lager yeast. My water is hard and has a pH of 5.8. Should I add a quantity of distilled water to reduce the pH?...

Hole saws and spade bits are too aggressive for us on plastic. Use a step drill- it wont slip and it gives a very fine cut. Go through slowly one step at a time until you reach 20mm. Practise on some scrap plastic- an old lunch box lid or something. 20mm will probably be fine, you could try 22mm on ...

Hi, I brew AG most of the time but couldn't resist picking up a can of Wilko DV Stout on offer for £5. Instead of white sugar I used a bag of Wilko Beer enhancer which I think is 50% Spay malt and 50% Brewing sugar. I also put in 500gms of dark muscavado suger. I made up a hop bag of 20gms of Challe...