We are now at that time of the year when things are getting very tight, particularly in the pocketbook-area. In addition, I have noted that there have been several requests for more knowledge on beer crafting and how one might even -- gasp! -- brew up a batch of one's own hand crafted beverage. To satisfy both of these customer requests, I have included here some helpful information that can get you on your way to brewing your own beer, no matter what level of brewer you may be.
Where do I go??
In Lawrence, there are, regrettably, no stores that cater to the home brewer. This leaves only the online market with which one may acquire the proper equipment and ingredients. However, there are a few places nearby (in Olathe and Shawnee), where you should be able to talk to someone face-to-face and get some hands-on help with home brewing:
Homebrew Pro Shoppe
2061 E Santa Fe
Olathe, KS
Bacchus & Barleycorn
6633 Nieman Rd
Shawnee, KS
What about online??
Of course, living in Lawrence, that are no home brew shops, which leaves only the ability to use the wonders of technology to get things. Listed here are some of the best websites you can use to learn more about how to brew beer at home:
www.northernbrewer.com may be the best website to use, according to my resources. This website has a wide variety of products, from the advanced high-end home brewers all the way down to starter kits made for people who just want to give it a try. This website also has a pretty good deal for shipping, as $7.99 ships anything you want, no matter whether you're looking for a bottle-capper or a 20-gallon kettle.
www.williamsbrewing.com and www.morebeer.com are other websites website that cater to the home brewer, offering cutting edge recipes, new product info, and methods for brewing in your bathrobe.
How is that possible?
That Lawrence doesn't have any home brew stores? I don't have an answer to that one, chief. Maybe someone right now sees this blog and realizes that we really need one. The market for home brewers is growing just like the craft beer market has for the last 20 years, and it's no surprise. America was founded on hooch, kids. In the cramped basement speakeasy whiskey stills was where the first American revolutionaries met to overthrow British Rule. After all, even Sam Adams made beer. He also lit the tower lanterns when Paul Revere rode to inform the American revolutionary army: one if by land, two if by sea. If that's not some founding father folklore, I don't know what is. Lawrence does not have a home brew store, but, as all revolutionaries may already know, there is a guild. Click on the link to pay them a visit. Home brew is a lot closer to home than you might think.
Now, whether you're a hard-core seasoned veteran or a 21-year-old rookie, home brewing is a great way to test your mettle, to celebrate your freedom, and to actively participate in American history. As always, please be safe out there this holiday season, and stay thirsty, my friends.
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