Group Brew 2008

Beginning in 2006, an annual tradition began where we make a “Group Brew”. Each year we will make up a recipe that can then be used for a communal barrel-filling, or one that can be made with the same base ingredients but differing yeast (or hop schedule, or adjuncts, etc.). We can then enjoy the long-term aged brew or compare the subtleties of the various batches made with slightly different ingredients. The choice is up to the members to decide what to do for that year.

In honor (or because of) the Great 2008 Hop Shortage, the 2008 Group Brew will allow for members to use their creativity in bittering/flavoring a beer without use of lots of hops. On Big Brew Day (May 3) or thereabouts, each participant will brew a batch of the base Amber-style ale (all-grain and extract with grain kits will be available for purchase at Savannah Homebrew Shop). The malt and yeast will be the same for everybody. For hops, you can use up to 1 oz. of any variety you want (OR THAT IS, WHAT YOU CAN GET). It’s up to you to decide how your hop addition(s) are made or even the type of hop you want to use—just don’t go over 1 oz. Also, you can then add any additional non-fermentables (spices/herbs/flavor extracts/etc.) that you want to make it your own “special” brew. To make it even more interesting, look at changing your water profile, or your method of mashing. After 2 months, we will return for a July stammtisch and enjoy the fruits of our labor at a tasting party (date TBA). Call Jerald to order your kit at 201-9880.

The following is the club’s recipe for our “Do Wa Ya Wanna” Amber Ale: