Open to any advice

[Yogi Brewer]

Hi Guys (and I assume Girls?) (not SHMBO)
I have been toying with the idea of home brewing for some time but because of personal circumstances have not had the time until now.
I have been following a lot of the conversations on several sites and have found this forum to be far and away the most informative and friendly . So here I am.
Today I bought a Coopers Micro Brewery kit. won't be making the lager though as I'm a real ale freak, so I also bought a Woodfordes Wherry beer kit (Wilkinsons) as I believe this is a decent brew, (if I get it right), unfortunately even though all the advice says take your time, I just couldn't wait and it's in the f.v. already. I now wait with baited breath (and a can! - yes can! of Ruddles) for that glorious day weeks from now when I can enjoy my own brew.

 

[dennisking]

Hi and welcome, sounds like you you will be well at home here. :thumb:

 

[pittsy]

welcome , it's a great hobby.

 

[PD]

Welcome
Now is the time to " take your time ".
take no notice of the makers time frame.
Your beer NEEDS at least 10 days to 2 weeks in the fermenter, to fully work out Keep the temperature between 18-20C.
When its finished move it to a cooler spot and leave it for a week or so before you attempt to bottle it or barrel it.
Give it another two weeks to carbonate with your added sugars and THEN enjoy 40 glorious pints.....

 

[Yogi Brewer]

Thanks for the welcome and yes I feel at home already

 

[Yogi Brewer]

Thanks for the advice, I am determined that the first brew will be a good un so yes now its cooking I will forget about it. and start planning brew 2.
I would welcome any thoughts about what to start next

 

[dennisking]

Suggest you browse the kit review section for ideas.

 

[PD]

I agree with Dennis.
Then when you have browsed it, go and order a St Peters Red Ruby Ale kit.
Its a 2 can kit and will cost you around £21.
Its pure nectar.

 

[Yogi Brewer]

thanks for the advice, will do both

 

[joe1002]

Welcome to the forum :

 

[Yogi Brewer]

Thanks Joe.
Can anyone advise me about the Coopers micro brewery kit, specifically the Krausen collar, does the brew have to be above the bottom edge of the collar? I ask as I decided to brew the Wherry short to 20l. and when would be the best time to remove the collar?, the kit instructions say 3 days but I will as advised be keeping the brew in F.V. for at least 10 days

 

[BarnsleyBrewer]

Welcome to the forum.... :drink:

BB

 

[PD]

the level of the brew is immaterial in relation to the bottom edge of the clooar.
it does a fine job of collecting the crud formed on the surface of the beer.
When the initial fermentation has calmed down, take out the collar and clean the crud off. I usually leave it off then and just put the lid back on with its clips.
One of the best fermenters I've found,

Dont forget you can dismantle the tap when its empty and give it a thorough clean, every time between brews.

 

[Yogi Brewer]

Thanks for the info, after initial excitement of first brew in the F.V. I am now trying to ensure it will be a good one, many thanks