Flash Brewing Q&A: Your Top Questions Answered! | MoreBeer!

Summary

In this video, the hosts address common questions about Flash Brewing kits, designed to simplify the beer-making process for beginners. They discuss the possibility of double dry hopping, the importance of minimizing bacteria contamination, and the benefits of letting ingredients self-hydrate. They also cover fermentation temperature control, the typical fermentation timeline, and the impact of water chemistry. The conversation highlights the kits' versatility for both new and experienced brewers, with a focus on creating quality, drinkable beer without the complexities of traditional brewing methods.

Takeaways

• 🍺 The Flash Brewing kits are designed for ease of use, especially for new brewers, to help them make a good beer right from the start.
• 🌟 Experienced brewers can also enjoy the flexibility of the kits, such as the option to double dry hop (DDH) their beer.
• 🕵️‍♂️ The kits aim to reduce variables that lead to bad beer and provide a platform for brewers to experiment with techniques like delayed dry hopping.
• 🚫 To minimize the risk of bacterial contamination, it's recommended that new brewers avoid stirring and let ingredients like malt and yeast self-hydrate without additional intervention.
• 🕰️ Post-fermentation, most of the hop residue should settle out within a week to a week and a half without the need for stirring.
• 🌡️ Fermentation temperature can be experimented with, as the yeast used in Flash Brewing kits is tolerant to a wide range of temperatures, but ideally, the 70s Fahrenheit is the 'happy spot'.
• 📉 The yeast in Flash Brewing kits starts fast with a small lag time, which helps in quickly establishing fermentation and reducing the risk of bacterial contamination.
• 📆 Fermentation can take one to two weeks, but signs of fermentation are usually visible within 4 to 6 hours, with full fermentation setting in by the next day.
• 🍻 The final product of Flash Brewing kits is a solid, drinkable beer that can be enjoyed by brewers and their friends, with the potential for high scores in home brewing competitions.
• 💧 While using RO water is recommended for new brewers, experienced brewers can tweak water chemistry to suit different beer styles, but caution is advised to avoid issues like metallic flavors.
• 🔄 The creators of Flash Brewing kits are considering smaller sizes and kegging options for future products to cater to a wider audience and make home brewing even more accessible.

Q & A

What is Flash Brewing and what is its purpose?

Flash Brewing is a simplified home brewing method designed to reduce the variables that can lead to bad beer, making it accessible for new brewers and allowing experienced brewers to experiment with ease.

Can you double dry hop (DDH) a beer using the Flash Brewing method?

Yes, you can double dry hop a beer with Flash Brewing. Experienced brewers can adjust the timing and even add extra hops post-fermentation to achieve the desired flavor profile.

What is the recommended approach for dealing with hops and yeast during the brewing process?

The recommended approach is to let the ingredients self-hydrate without stirring, which minimizes the risk of bacterial contamination and simplifies the process for new brewers.

What happens to the hops after fermentation in Flash Brewing?

After fermentation, most of the hops should settle out within a week to a week and a half. Stirring at this point is generally not recommended.

Can you control the fermentation temperature with Flash Brewing?

Yes, you can control the fermentation temperature. The yeast used in Flash Brewing is tolerant of a wide temperature range, but ideally, temperatures in the 70s are best for most ales.

How long does it typically take for a beer to ferment using the Flash Brewing method?

Fermentation can take one to two weeks, but signs of fermentation can be seen within 4 to 6 hours, with full fermentation setting in by the next day, especially at higher temperatures.

What is the recommended minimum time to wait for beer clarity when using Flash Brewing?

For clarity, it is recommended to wait at least 7 to 10 days, allowing the flavors to mature and preventing a 'green' beer taste.

What are some favorite beer styles to Flash Brew according to the video?

The Citrus Session Pale Ale is mentioned as a favorite style for Flash Brewing due to its lower ABV and hoppy flavor.

How do Flash Brewing kits differ from Fresh Wort kits?

Fresh Wort kits involve a concentrated wort from a large-scale brewery batch, while Flash Brewing kits are designed for simplicity and speed, eliminating the need for boiling and chilling.

What are the considerations regarding water profile when using Flash Brewing kits?

For new brewers, using clean, neutral bottled water or RO water is recommended. Experienced brewers can experiment with water chemistry, but caution is advised to avoid issues like metallic flavors.

Are smaller size Flash Brewing kits planned for the future?

Yes, the creators are working on smaller kits, potentially down to one gallon, to make Flash Brewing more accessible and suitable for gifting or for those with limited space.

What is the taste of beer brewed using Flash Brewing kits?

The taste of beer brewed with Flash Brewing kits is reported to be good, with some batches scoring high in competitions, indicating that quality beer can be produced with this method.