Improving a Coopers APA

[Paulie Walnuts]

I've decided to experiment a little with some beer kits.

I've just taken delivery of an order for a few bits and bobs, and have a couple of APA kits to use as a base. Having brewed this 'straight' before, with 1Kg of enhancer, I did find it a little bland but see it as a fairly neutral starting point for a tasty golden ale.

I'm not aiming for anything too bitter, and am a fan of Tanglefoot, Badger First Gold, Brakespeares Oxford Gold etc. My favourite kit so far has been the Brupaks Fixby Gold.

I have a few hop boiling bags and 500g of Crystal Malt which I plan on steeping 125g of for 30 minutes @ 70 degrees before bringing to the boil to finish off any nasties.

I also have some hops, but am not sure of the proportions to use & boil length in order to produce the desired results. I have Challenger, Fuggles, Northdown, Target, Goldings & Cascade.

Your input would be greatly appreciated.

 

[richc]

My immediate suggestion would be to boost flavour and aroma with your cascade. Say 15-25g boiled for 10 minutes then dry hop with the same again.

 

[Paulie Walnuts]

I've given it a go this evening. 125g Crystal Malt steeped for 40 minutes, then rinsed the bag in cold water a few times before adding to the FV.

Boiled 20g of Cascade for 15 minutes & 20g of Golding for 5 minutes in the water I'd steeped the Malt in.

Added this to the made up APA with 1Kg of beer kit enhancer, 5 Gallon brew length, OG 1040.

Maybe I've overdone it with the hops, but as long as it's drinkable then I see it as a starting point for further experimentation.