Beer idea

[Andrew W]

Hi there,

I have been using copper kits for a while now, since in started my first 1 about 6 months ago, but i do have a question in relation to beer strength.

I have been told that 2 can kits are better than single can and depends on how much sugar is put into the mix. I was told however, if i used 1 tin of coopers larger, with 1.5kg extra light spray malt with 1.5kg brewing sugar, this should give me something in region of 5% plus. at the moment, i only use 1 kg brew enhancer with 1 tin of coppers larger.

I am worried that so much sugar/malt may cause it to be too sweet. as anyway tried this? or would have any comments if this would be a good idea/bad idea?

cheers and thanks

Andrew

 

[memit]

There are a few threads on here about getting higher ABV out of kits.

When I wanted a stronger brew I just diluted it a bit less (so I made 20 litres instead of 23) and it turned out well.

I suspect adding 3kgs of extra fermentables would be way too much if your target is 5%. I doubt the taste will be up to scratch, but if I was going to experiment I might do it bit by bit (e.g. add an extra 500g of fermentables to your next brew, and if you think it tastes good but isn't strong enough add a bit more next time).

 

[abeyptfc]

if you use the 2 kits i would just add the spraymalt and ditch the sugar, you'll probably be looking at something in the region of at least 6% and will have much more body IMO.

 

[Andrew W]

Ok, I want the flavour and the strength, so looks like i will need to use a 2 tin pack, Can i use 2 x 1 can kits together to make a brew? or does it have to be a special 2 tin kit? How much malt/sugar would you recommend for 5%/6%/7% for a 2 tin kit?

Cheers

Andrew (noob)

 

[PD]

Kits are designed as a specific beer...a lager a bitter a stout etc, each is designed to produce a certain amount of alcohol within that style. Unless you know exactly what you are doing ( and that comes with experience ) I would suggest you dont try " just bumping up the alcohol "
Extra sugar will do that but it will probably be a lousy beer.
Pick what style of beer you wish to make and make it either as directed in the instructions and make a great beer.
Or alter it slightly by tried and trusted methods which are easily done by the beginner and will not ruin the type of beer produced. i.e, brew it a little short, say to 20 litres keeping all ingredients the same or brew it short and substitute your brewing sugars with enhancer and or spray malt.

Just altering the alcohol level does not necessarily make a better beer.

Remember that 2 can kits will make a better beer than 1 can kits, and they do not NEED any extra sugar added.