Big Monster Brewing

Sometimes simpler is better in a beer.It’s also sometimes harder in brewing when theirs not complex or off the wall flavors for flaws to hide behind.That’s the challenge in making this super simple and super delightful cream ale called “Crazigone”.

To see the full video version of this episode visit: https://youtu.be/uce5rff99fQ

I’m not a fan of Belgian beers, that’s not a beer secret.But I am determined to dial in a couple of recipes to become a more well-rounded brewer.So with my attention span and general lack of personal motivation,I have to make the challenge fun for myself. So for this Belgian beer, I focused on the witbier style for the sugar additive - I picked Cotton Candy. This should be interesting

UPDATE: There's more to the story of this beer, the story continues here: neozaz.com/sunshine-challenge-wrap-up/

To see the full video version of this episode visit: https://youtu.be/YjBILoXwc6A

For nearly 3 years Matt has audio documented his brewing experience. Now it’s time for the next phase. With that is a new name “Big Monster Brewing.” The show remains the same, only bigger! Home brewing is still the focus with the addition of more brewery visits, gear reviews, competition coverage, and the biggest addition of all - Video episodes on the new Big Monster Brewing YouTube channel!

Visit the Big Monster Brewing YouTube Channel at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDEP4pP0JMpb2gYGsPTjh8g

Sometimes the best-laid plans don't always lead the result you want.Making 10 beer styles before the Sunshine challenge has been fun so far and I've learned quite a bit along the way.But with the days ticking down the to the competition the reality set in with the question "what is it you're actually trying to accomplish?".In answering that question, I've re-arranged my schedule and this self-imposed challenge with the time remaining for the Sunshine Challenge Home Brewers competition.This video lays out the details. And I try the unexpected good Pale Ale again.

To see the full video version of this episode visit: https://youtu.be/6jmZuWoop-g

How many things can go wrong in a single brew day?That answer is in this episode, and it all happens while I’m making a style that I know nothing about.But that’s the point of this, to get to know what a Trappist Single looks, smells, and tastes like, and to see if I can make on myself.In the end, it this ends up being drinkable, there’s likely no way I’ll ever be able to duplicate this batch again.

To see the full video version of this episode visit: https://youtu.be/T3sdtuZIiq0

This is a big beer, and I need to make sure there's enough yeast to ferment everything.In Part 2 covering the Old Ale, I start off by checking on the current state of the fermentation then propagate some more yeast from my yeast bank to make sure there's enough to finish this beer properly.After bottling and condition, I give the Old Ale it's first taste after 30 days. But this won't be the last taste.

To see the full video version of this episode visit: https://youtu.be/BkhZoqGjZCE

After finding 2 Old Ales on tap in 2 different breweries, I figured it must be some kind of signThis is my first, and I'm reasonably sure not my last, attempt at an English Old Ale. A rich, strong, malty, sweet, bordering on decadent ale that, when done right, can be a magnificent treat.This is the first part of a two-part video. In part 1 I go through the style, recipe, and brewing of my first version an Old Ale!

To see the full video version of this episode visit: https://youtu.be/5JIfNc06EZc

I have wanted to try my hand at an Altbier for a very long time. It's one of those things that always seemed to get put on hold when something else came up. Yet, another great thing about these style challenges.Not saying it forces me to finally try making it an altbier, better said "it gives me the unique opportunity" to try. (Now you see how my inner voice works when it comes to brewing beer). It is style 7B, part of Category 7 Amber Bitter European Beer in the BJCP Style Guide.I've got another strain of yeast lined up for this, White Labs WLP03 Dusseldorf Alt Ale Yeast. I'm not testing or experimenting with this yeast in this series, I'm using it on the overwhelming recommendations of homebrews both in-person and online.Again, can't wait to see how this comes out. It's another style to tick off in the challenge and one I've really wanted to try for quite a while.

To see the full video version of this episode visit: https://youtu.be/py2vuJaZU_w

UPDATE: There's more to the story of this beer, the story continues here: neozaz.com/sunshine-challenge-wrap-up/

Going for another first time style this brew, the California Common. It's a style I know well and would love to add to my rotation of beers on hand.

I'm using the Imperial Cablecar L05 yeast strain again for this one. It ferments warmer than most lager strains but ages well with of lager time.

Everything sounds so simple, what could possibly go wrong? Check out the episode and found. Becuase it does.

To see the full video version of this episode visit: https://youtu.be/PbEIUtbe1KA

For the National Homebrew Day's Big Brew 2019 I couldn't make a big batch of beer, so I went the next literal step - I made a "big" beer.It's my first Barleywine - a big bodied, big flavor, and big abv beer! This is a grain to fermenter episode - all shot on May 4th 2019 - the Big Brew Day.Tasting video still yet to come. For more on Big Brew and the American Homebrewers Association visit: https://www.homebrewersassociation.org/

To see the full video version of the epsiode visit: https://youtu.be/PXNBVGcuriM