Hello from Tunbridge Wells

[Starter410]

Hello.

Just starting out on the home brewing journey. Particularly interested in brewing bitters and IPA's. Keen to get advice on what kit I need and where to get it from - lots of kits on the market.

I'm thinking I should start with a basic kit and once I have the hang of it, advance to all grain brewing or should I go straight to all grain.

Any advice much appreciated.

Cheers.

Dave

 

[Bigjas]

Hi and welcome

I started back in March with a couple of decent kits (Youngs AAA and Festival Golden Stag) then went on to All Grain brewing. For me it was the perfect way in to brewing as I learnt a lot doing the kits and they produced great beer. It also allowed me to spread the cost of buying/making all the equipment that I needed for all grain brewing. I use a 3 vessel set up but you can do it cheaper and with less equipment if you go down the BIAB route. I started out with the Youngs starter kit which came with the Fermenter bucket, pressure barrel, Hydrometer and the Beer kit (American Amber Ale). It was enough to get going. I then added bits of kit as I went along and after reading masses of info on this forum, I started AG brewing with some success. I am now fermenting AG brew no 7 and have brewed a kit in that time too. There is nothing to stop you jumping straight in to AG brewing, many have done it, but there is lots to learn :thumb:My advice, would be to try a kit first, but get a decent kit, plenty of reviews here http://www.thehomebrewforum.co.uk/showthread.php?t=61597

Jas

 

[terrym]

If you are new to homebrewing try this for starters...
http://www.thehomebrewforum.co.uk/showthread.php?t=57526
I suggest you start with a premium kit (a 2 can) since all that you need is there. There are plenty to choose from; look at the review section here on this forum.
When you have done that you could progress to boosting one can kits by dry hopping or hop teas and by steeping grains or minimashes, or try a few extract brews of your own.
And when you have developed your technique and feel confident about what you are doing, you can then decide if you want to invest in an AG set up, and that's time spent as well as kit.

 

[brumbrew]

Welcome to the forum. I'd say start with a kit. Get used to the process involved then when your sipping the rewards plan your first AG brew.

 

[Chippy_Tea]

Welcome to the forum Starter410. :